An 80-year-old man was arrested at Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport in Barcelona on 2 May after allegedly sexually assaulting a female passenger. The incident happened at around 23:45 while both were boarding a domestic flight, according to the Civil Guard.
The passenger alerted airline staff after saying the man had touched her inappropriately. Civil Guard officers from the airport security surveillance and intervention unit responded to the aircraft, where they spoke with the passenger and several witnesses.
Witnesses said the man touched the passenger as she walked to her seat, then tried to continue physical contact and stared at her persistently. The suspect denied the allegations. The Civil Guard said he showed signs of alcohol consumption, including an alcoholic smell, incoherent speech and unsteady walking.
After the arrest, the flight was able to depart. Officers also informed the passenger about the steps needed to file a formal complaint. The investigation is continuing.
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Barcelona Airport is one of Catalonia’s busiest transport hubs, and the Civil Guard said it acted quickly after the complaint was reported. The case remains under investigation.
