Man Arrested After Tarmac Joyride at Southern California Airport
An individual allegedly stole an airport tug and drove it across the airfield at John Wayne Airport.
A man was arrested Tuesday evening at John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, California, after allegedly taking an airport tug for a joyride on the tarmac. The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. when the man, who was reportedly waiting for a flight, exited through a restricted door and gained access to the airfield.
According to airport officials, the man then climbed aboard a tug vehicle and drove it across the ramp area, heading toward the American Airlines gates. The unauthorized excursion lasted approximately 10 minutes before authorities apprehended him. During the incident, he reportedly attempted to access an American Airlines vehicle but was taken into custody before reaching it.
The ramp area at an airport is a restricted zone, accessible only to authorized personnel involved in ground operations, baggage handling, fueling, and other services necessary for aircraft. The man was subsequently taken to a hospital for evaluation. It remains unclear if he was under the influence of any substances at the time of the incident.