A man has been convicted of trying to commit a rape during an easyJet flight targeting a lone female passenger. Nicola Cristiano changed seats to be close to the victim on a flight from Naples to Edinburgh, where the assault took place. The 45-year-old was found guilty of attempted rape following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh on December 9.
Cristiano targeted the woman who was traveling alone on a flight from Naples on May 13, 2025, by relocating to sit next to her. The victim managed to alert the cabin crew after Cristiano moved to another section of the plane.
Upon landing at Edinburgh Airport, Cristiano was arrested. Authorities criticized his actions as “despicable” and highlighted the victim’s courage in reporting the incident. Detective Chief Inspector Steph Garnett from Police Scotland’s Public Protection Unit expressed hope that Cristiano’s conviction would provide comfort to the victim and encourage other victims of sexual crimes to come forward. The sentencing for Cristiano will occur at a later date.
For reporting a sexual crime, individuals can contact the authorities through 101 or reach out to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.