On August 2, 2026, a man faced charges after allegedly breaching security at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and boarding a JetBlue aircraft. The incident occurred when Sammuel Lackey, age 32, reportedly scaled the airport’s fence to enter a secured area, including the aircraft operations section, according to the Broward Sheriff’s Office arrest affidavit.
Once inside the airport, Lackey found his way to JetScape Services at 350 SW 34th St., where an empty 2012 Airbus A320 was undergoing maintenance. The affidavit indicated that the plane had an open left rear door with stairs attached, enabling access for maintenance employees.
Lackey allegedly used these stairs to enter the aircraft and subsequently concealed himself in the bathroom. At approximately 4:25 a.m., the aircraft doors were closed and latched with Lackey inside. He was discovered about an hour later during an inspection before the plane was scheduled to move.
Due to Lackey’s unauthorized presence, the aircraft could not proceed to its gate as planned, leading to a service interruption valued at $2,400.96 by JetBlue. Another aircraft had to substitute the planned flight.
Authorities interviewed Lackey, who admitted to climbing over the perimeter fence to access restricted areas of the airport. He now faces charges including burglary, criminal mischief, and interfering with critical infrastructure.
As of Wednesday, Lackey awaited legal representation while being held at Broward Main Jail on a $10,000 bond. Representatives for Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and JetScape Services have not yet provided comments on the incident.