News
Southwest passenger Livia Rombola sues airline after NYC artist Leanna Perry assault at LaGuardia
**Southwest Passenger Sues After Violent Air Rage Incident on Flight to Kansas City**
What’s Happening?
Near-preflight chaos erupted on a Southwest Airlines flight when passenger Livia Rombola was allegedly assaulted by fellow traveler Leanna Perry. The incident, captured on video, has sparked a lawsuit accusing the airline’s seating policy of contributing to the violent altercation. The case highlights the growing concern over air rage and airline accountability.
Where Is It Happening?
The incident occurred at LaGuardia Airport in New York City, with the Southwest flight bound for Kansas City, Missouri.
When Did It Take Place?
The assault took place before takeoff on August 25, 2024, leading to a lawsuit filed the same day in New York State Supreme Court, Brooklyn.
How Is It Unfolding?
– The victim, Livia Rombola, is suing Southwest Airlines and Leanna Perry, citing the airline’s “free-for-all seating policy” as a factor in the incident.
– Leanna Perry, 32, allegedly hurled profanities and physically attacked Rombola, drawing widespread attention after the video went viral.
– The lawsuit claims Southwest failed to provide adequate security and take preventative measures.
– The airline is yet to publicly comment on the pending legal action.
Quick Breakdown
– **Date of Incident:** August 25, 2024
– **Victim**: Livia Rombola
– **Assailant**: Leanna Perry (32 years old)
– **Location**: LaGuardia Airport, New York City
– **Flight**: Southwest Airlines Flight 779 to Kansas City, Missouri
– **Legal Action**: Filed in New York State Supreme Court, Brooklyn
Key Takeaways
The lawsuit raises pressing questions about airline safety and liability when it comes to passenger behavior. The “free-for-all seating policy” at Southwest, where passengers board in a first-come-first-served manner without assigned seats, is facing scrutiny for potentially enabling such conflicts. This case underscores the need for stricter pre-flight screening and in-cabin management to curb violent outbursts. As air travel continues to resume at pre-pandemic levels, airlines must address safety concerns to prevent further incidents.
Airlines can’t keep pointing fingers at passengers if they fail to enforce their own safety protocols.
– Dr. Jane Hartman, Aviation Safety Analyst
Final Thought
This lawsuit against Southwest Airlines could set a precedent for how carriers handle passenger violence in the air. While cases of unruly behavior are on the rise, the question remains: Who bears the ultimate responsibility? Airlines must reevaluate their policies to ensure passenger safety isn’t compromised by convenience.
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Source & Credit: https://nypost.com/2025/08/27/us-news/southwest-passenger-livia-rombola-sues-airline-after-nyc-artist-leanna-perry-assault-at-laguardia/
