Passenger Furious Over Overhead Bin Space Tells Crew He Has a Bomb in His Bag

A JetBlue flight in Florida was suddenly evacuated after an elderly passenger allegedly told airline staff he had a bomb in his bag during an argument over overhead luggage space.

Robert Albanese, 76, of Lindenhurst, New York, was arrested Sunday morning at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, according to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office.

The incident happened just before 10 a.m. at Terminal 4 as the plane was preparing to depart.

Authorities say the situation began when Albanese became frustrated after he couldn’t find room in the overhead bin for his carry-on bag.

According to an arrest affidavit, several witnesses — including flight attendants and a gate agent — said Albanese started arguing with airline staff about where to store his luggage.

During the dispute, multiple people reported hearing him say, “I have a bomb in my bag,” while pointing toward his carry-on inside the aircraft cabin.

The comment immediately triggered a major security response.

Deputies quickly took Albanese into custody, and passengers were evacuated from the plane while authorities investigated the potential threat.

A K9 unit was brought onto the aircraft to search for explosives, but no bomb or dangerous device was found.

Officials have not yet said where the flight was headed or how many passengers were on board, but the disruption caused delays and forced additional security procedures.

Authorities estimate the incident cost the airline and airport more than $1,000 due to delays, operational disruptions, and the emergency response.

Albanese now faces charges including making a false report of a bomb and criminal mischief involving damages exceeding $1,000.

He is currently being held at the Broward County Jail without bail.