Pilot Imposter Nabbed In Italy

0

An unidentified man who apparently bluffed his way into the jump seat of at least one airline flight was arrested in Turin, Italy, Saturday wearing a pilot’s uniform and carrying fake ID. The man, a 32-year-old Italian, is alleged to have concocted an elaborate alter ego as Andrea Sirlo, a Lufthansa captain, that got him a ride as “third pilot” on a flight from Munich to Turin on Oct. 23, 2011. It’s not clear if he has any flying credentials or whether he has helped out on any other flights. Lufthansa isn’t commenting and the Italian police are looking into it. He was arrested in the check-in area of the Turin Airport after some cyber sleuthing by the police.

The man set up a Facebook page complete with photos of him in sunglasses and uniform with fake flight attendant friends. When he was arrested police found fake resumes, airline badges and an airport staff parking permit. In the end, it appears a touch of arrogance led to his undoing. An Italian official became suspicious a couple of months ago when the man identified himself as a captain but appeared too young for the job. That began the investigation that led to his arrest.

LEAVE A REPLY