Arrested After Slapping Engine Nacelle Of Southwest Airliner On Taxiway

A man who was determined to be intoxicated climbed a fence at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport on Christmas Day and started running across the tarmac towards a taxiway.

The incident occurred about 5:30 local time, according to a report in The Arizona Republic and relayed by USA Today. Phoenix police spokesman James Holmes said the 49-year-old man, identified as Robert Bump, ran towards a Southwest jet that was waiting on a taxiway for clearance to approach the terminal. Authorities warned the pilot of the airliner that there was someone approaching the airplane, and the engine he was nearest was shut down to avoid injuring him.

Bump allegedly banged on the nacelle with his hands while walking towards the terminal. Holmes said that it took about four minutes from the time Bump was first noticed until he was apprehended.

To get to the plane, Bump had to climb over an 8-9 foot fence topped with barbed wire, according to the paper. Holmes said Bump "showed signs of alcohol impairment and possibly drug use."

Deputy Aviation Director at Sky Harbor Deborah Ostereicher said "he's lucky to be alive."

(Photo provided by Phoenix PD)

FMI: http://skyharbor.com, http://phoenix.gov/police