A 28-year-old Indian national has been charged in the United States for allegedly stabbing two teenage passengers and assaulting another traveller during a Lufthansa flight from Chicago to Germany, US authorities said.
The incident occurred on October 25, forcing the flight to divert to Boston Logan International Airport, according to the US Attorney&rsquo;s Office for the District of Massachusetts.
The accused, Praneeth Kumar Usiripalli, reportedly used a metal fork to stab a 17-year-old passenger in the shoulder and another 17-year-old in the back of the head, causing visible injuries. He later attempted to slap a female passenger and a flight crew member.
Authorities stated that when crew members tried to restrain him, Usiripalli made a gesture mimicking a gun, placed his fingers in his mouth, and pretended to pull the trigger.
Usiripalli has been charged with assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to cause bodily harm while aboard an aircraft. He was arrested on October 25 and will appear in federal court in Boston.
The accused reportedly no longer holds a lawful immigration status in the US. He previously held a student visa and was enrolled in a master&rsquo;s program in biblical studies.
If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.

US charges Indian passenger for stabbing teens midair with fork on Lufthansa flight

Indian Man Charged for Lufthansa Air Attack

US charges Indian passenger for stabbing teens midair with fork on Lufthansa flight

October 28, 2025 | 18:40 IST