Colombian influencer Yeferson Cossio faces sanctions from Avianca after an incident on a March 11 flight from Bogotá to Madrid, the airline announced on Apr. 1.
The case is notable as it involves alleged disruptive behavior by a public figure aboard an international flight, raising questions about passenger conduct and airline policies regarding safety and comfort.
According to Avianca, Cossio allegedly activated a device that produced a chemical odor similar to flatulence inside the cabin. The airline stated that this action affected “the safety, comfort, order and discipline onboard, as well as the health conditions of the flight,” especially since the aircraft was flying over the Atlantic Ocean far from any airport in case of emergency. As a result, Avianca canceled his return ticket and said it would pursue legal actions against him. The company also reiterated its opposition to any behavior that endangers operations or disrupts customer and crew experience. “The airline reiterates its call to authorities and Congress to continue advancing Bill 153 of 2025, a key initiative to toughen penalties against disruptive passengers and strengthen protection for aviation personnel,” Avianca said.
Cossio responded via Instagram by dismissing initial reports as rumors: “¿Ah, cómo así, yo por aquí apenas despertándome y ya me inventaron mero chisme? Vea que bueno.” He later released a statement explaining that the incident was accidental—a device in his carry-on luggage had been unintentionally activated. He clarified that it posed no real risk: “The stink bomb…is not flammable, does not generate combustion, does not represent a real risk for the integrity of the aircraft or continuity of the flight…and has only temporary effects.” He emphasized there was no intent to create content or play pranks during the flight: “I categorically reject claims this was planned for content creation…there was no production team or staged recording onboard.” In subsequent videos posted online, he accepted responsibility but insisted it had been exaggerated by others: “With or without intention I made a mistake…but it’s not as serious as people are making it out to be.”
This situation brings attention to ongoing discussions about passenger behavior on flights and potential legislative changes aimed at addressing such incidents.
