I'm not a lawyer either, but I can't imagine why asking for security or a police officer
would be grounds for a federal charge. One thing I do know is that being charged with a
federal crime and being convicted and punished with a federal crime are two
different things. I'll take my chances at being charged and worry
about a conviction later. I trust the judicial system enough not to needlessly
give away my civil liberties despite being at an airport.

If you're willing to assume Congress gave the cabin crew this power only because there
are no police officers while in flight, it's not unreasonable to ask for
security/police while on the ground, at the gate, with the door open.

Once the door has been closed, security/police is no longer an option, but
of course the FA can't throw you off the flight unless he/she opens the door, at
which time you're back to asking for security/police. Does that make sense?

[This message has been edited by JS (edited 11-15-2001).]