Man arrested aboard Florida JetBlue plane for calling in bomb threat
Updated March 2, 2026, 10:05 a.m. ET
- A 76-year-old man was arrested after allegedly making a bomb threat on a JetBlue flight.
- The incident occurred at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on March 1.
- Passengers were evacuated, but a search of the aircraft found no dangers.
A 76-year-old man was behind bars Monday, March 2 after authorities said he made a bomb threat aboard a JetBlue flight.
Robert Albanese, 76, made the threat while on the plane at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport shortly before 10 a.m., Sunday, March 1. Broward Sheriff’s Office Airport District deputies responded and removed Albanese from the aircraft.
All passengers were evacuated. A BSO K9 unit searched the plane and found no dangers. Passengers were able to reboard and the flight resumed.
Albanese was on a charge of a false report bomb explosive weapon mass destruction.
Michelle Spitzer is a journalist for The USA TODAY NETWORK-FLORIDA. As the network’s Rapid Response reporter, she covers Florida’s breaking news. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://floridatoday.com/newsletters.
