A Florida couple’s trip to Cancún took a wild turn when they ended up behind bars instead of on a sandy beach. Rafael Seirafe-Novaes, 40, and Beatriz Rapoport De Campos Maia, 29, were arrested at Miami International Airport on March 2 after allegedly assaulting airline staff who denied them boarding for arriving late.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office confirmed the incident to WSVN, and shocking video footage captured the entire outburst. The couple reportedly arrived at the gate at 8:35 a.m. for their American Airlines flight to Cancún, but with boarding already closed, they were refused entry. Instead of accepting the setback, they allegedly tried to force their way onto the plane.
Authorities say the two ignored no-trespassing signs and verbal warnings from staff before storming through onto the restricted jet bridge. Seirafe-Novaes allegedly shoved two employees, while Maia is accused of pushing staff and throwing coffee at them in frustration, according to the arrest report obtained by WSVN.
American Airlines confirmed the altercation to Fox News Digital, emphasizing their zero-tolerance policy toward violent behavior. “Acts of violence are not tolerated by American Airlines, and we are committed to working closely with law enforcement in their investigation,” the airline said in a statement.
It remains unclear whether the couple will be permanently banned from flying with American Airlines. However, their aggressive behavior caused a delay in the flight’s departure. Despite the disruption, the flight eventually took off and landed in Cancún about 30 minutes behind schedule—without them.
As for the legal fallout, Seirafe-Novaes was charged with resisting an officer without violence and trespassing, while Maia faces two counts of battery and trespassing.
Under federal law, committing acts of intentional violence in an international airport is a serious crime, carrying penalties of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
What was supposed to be a tropical getaway quickly turned into a nightmare for the couple—one that could have serious legal consequences.