Airlines and Airports
Allegiant Announces 9 New Routes to Florida for Spring 2027
Jessica Puckett
Opinions
How Artificial Intelligence Is Quietly Powering Hospitality's Sustainable Revolution
Guest Author
Puerto Vallarta Blog
What to Do in Puerto Vallarta: Top Budget-Friendly Activities
Hotels and Resorts
Say "I Do" in Style with Sandals Destination Weddings
Sandals Resorts
Destinations
Jamaica
Features & Advice
Tell Your Brand's Story with the TravelPulse Content Strategy Program
Education
Fort Myers Specialist Program
Baja California Specialist Program
An airport in Florida was temporarily shut down Thursday when a student pilot jumped a fence and broke into an empty plane sitting in a maintenance facility.
According to the Associated Press, the 26-year-old student pilot parked his car outside the Orlando Melbourne International Airport, left his car running and jumped a fence to get inside the facility.
Airport spokeswoman Lori Booker said in a statement the unidentified suspect boarded a vacant Airbus 321 American Airlines aircraft, forcing the facility to issue a temporary lockdown.
A maintenance worker at the Melbourne airport spotted him entering the plane and notified police, who found the man and took him into custody. Authorities conducted a sweep of the airport before reopening the facility.
Booker told The AP the suspect was born in Trinidad and Tobago, but had a Florida driver's license. Investigators were unsure which flight school the man attended, but he reportedly entered the United States through Canada.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
US Airports With the Most Flight Deals in 2026
New Data Shows Europe Dominates Leisure Travel Spending
Best US Wine Regions to Visit During The Harvest
D23 Highlights: Disney Reveals Big Theme Park and Cruise Line Plans
Universal Hollywood Adds New Terror Tram, Haunted Houses to Halloween Horror Nights
Sargassum Receding From Mexico’s Beaches, But Seaweed Still Impacting Travel
Beauty the World Over: A 2026 Guide to Glowmad Destinations
Tickets On Sale for New Universal Nights Events at Universal Epic Universe
On The Pulse: What’s Trending in Southeast Tourism?
Puerto Vallarta: The Very Best of Mexico
Puerto Vallarta: Pacific & Wild
Our Secret Formula for Travel Agent Success
Donald Wood is TravelPulse’s Managing Editor, bringing nearly 15 years of experience to the desk. He currently lives outside Philadelphia with his wife and two children.
