Overview

• On July 26, about ten ICE and HSI agents boarded Delta Flight 2809 moments after its Minneapolis-to-San Francisco landing to execute a warrant for the pilot.
• The detained pilot, identified as 34-year-old Rustom Bhagwagar of Florida, is under federal custody in connection with a Contra Costa County investigation into child sexual abuse material.
• Passengers described agents forcing entry into the cockpit, handcuffing the pilot, and escorting him off through cabin doors between first and economy class.
• Following the pilot’s removal, a second team boarded to seize his luggage and personal effects without explanation to travelers.
• Delta Airlines and the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office have declined to comment publicly as HSI continues to lead the ongoing legal process.