Rustom Bhagwagar, a 34-year-old Delta Airlines co-pilot of Indian origin residing in Florida, was arrested at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) on Saturday, July 26, 2025, after arriving on a flight from Minneapolis. The arrest took place at approximately 9:35 p.m., just minutes after Delta Flight 2809, a Boeing 757-300, landed.

Bhagwagar was apprehended by Contra Costa County Sheriff's deputies and agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). He faces five felony counts of oral copulation with a child under the age of 10. He is currently being held at the Martinez Detention Facility with bail set at $5 million.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office, the investigation into Bhagwagar began in April 2025 after they received a report of alleged sex crimes against a child. Detectives identified Bhagwagar as a suspect and learned that he was an airline pilot scheduled to fly into SFO on Saturday evening. A Ramey arrest warrant was secured. With the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations, deputies boarded the plane upon arrival and took Bhagwagar into custody.

Passengers on board Delta Flight 2809 witnessed the arrest. One passenger recounted that approximately ten officers in tactical gear, including air marshals and HSI agents, entered the cockpit to detain Bhagwagar. The passenger described the scene as "shocking and unnerving". Another passenger stated that the remaining pilot and crew appeared stunned and unaware of what was happening. Video footage of the arrest has circulated widely on social media.

Delta Air Lines has released a statement confirming Bhagwagar's suspension pending an investigation. The airline stated it "has zero tolerance for unlawful conduct and will fully cooperate with law enforcement".

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the alleged crimes. The Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office is urging anyone with information to contact the Investigations Division at (925) 313-2600, or to provide anonymous tips at (866) 846-3592.

Bhagwagar's professional background includes being licensed to fly a Boeing 757-300, the same aircraft model as Flight 2809. Records indicate that he has residential ties to San Ramon, Texas, and Florida. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records also confirm Bhagwagar is licensed to fly the Boeing 757-300. A court date for Bhagwagar has not yet been disclosed.