Peter Clark wrote:

Just to ask, is 49 USC 46504 restricted to commercial ops?

No, and apparently that one's a winner, as long as the
"interference" can be proven. However, a prosecution guideline
document on DOJ's web site is worded such that airline or at
least charter aircraft are the target of this statute. If indeed
Congressional intent is airlines, an indictment might be tossed
by the Court. It's further not a federal crime if DOJ won't
prosecute. If only the pilot and offending pax are on board,
prosecution will be difficult w/o witnesses. If witnesses and
the pilot regains control and lands like a C-172 safely, federal
prosecution doesn't seem called for nor is jail sentence assured.
State law can likely prosecute also, preferably if an assault on
the pilot, or a crash, or dangerous buzzing flight occurred.

F--