Escape slide airline steward spared jail

THE US airline steward who became world-famous after quitting his job before sliding down the emergency chute of a packed jet and running off has escaped jail for his actions.

Steven Slater admitted a charge of criminal mischief and was given a year’s probation.

“At the end of the day, I’m a grown-up and I must take responsibility for my actions,” Slater said outside the New York City court, adding that the public interest in his case had surprised him.