A high-ranking shipping company director is facing a substantial prison sentence after admitting to sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl during an international flight, in a disturbing case that has shocked aviation authorities.
James Bicknell, a 46-year-old operations director from Kent, was travelling on a Turkish Airlines flight from Istanbul to London when the incident occurred. The court heard how Bicknell, who had consumed alcohol before and during the flight, reached under the blanket covering the young girl and groped her.
"I Thought She Was My Wife"
When confronted by cabin crew and later by police, Bicknell offered a bizarre explanation for his actions. "He stated he was confused and thought she was his wife," prosecutor Emily Cartwright told Isleworth Crown Court.
The defence attempted to argue that Bicknell's judgment was severely impaired by his alcohol consumption and medication he was taking for anxiety. However, this justification was met with scepticism by the prosecution.
A Pattern of Concerning Behaviour
Evidence presented in court revealed this wasn't Bicknell's first instance of inappropriate behaviour on flights. He had previously been banned by Emirates airline for similar conduct, though the details of that incident weren't fully disclosed.
The court heard how the young victim's family, who were seated nearby, immediately alerted cabin crew when they realised what was happening. Their quick intervention prevented further assault and ensured the child was moved to safety.
Career in Ruins as Sentencing Looms
Bicknell, who worked for maritime company V.Group, has seen his successful career collapse following the incident. The company confirmed he is "no longer employed by V.Group" following his guilty plea.
Judge Sarah Paneth has ordered pre-sentence reports and warned Bicknell that "all sentencing options remain open, including immediate custody" when he returns to court next month.
The case has highlighted ongoing concerns about passenger safety aboard aircraft and the challenges cabin crew face in managing such incidents at 30,000 feet.
