Rev Peter McConnell, 64, sexually assaulted a man under a blanket as he slept on a plane from Philadephia to Heathrow two years ago.
The Jury heard that the former vicar of St Helen's Church, in Longhorsley made "sleazy" comments to a 23-year-old mature student before groping his leg and groin as he fell asleep.
Mr McConnell denied allegations of both inappropriate comments and sexual touching.
Newcastle Crown Court found him guilty and ordered him to sign the sex offenders register.
Ven Peter Robinson, Archdeacon of Lindisfarne in the Diocese of Newcastle, released the following statement in response to Mr McConnell's case: "All forms of abuse including sexual assault are destructive of human relationships and contrary to the teachings of Christ and the behaviour expected of ministers in the Church of England.
"We are distressed and dismayed at the actions of the Reverend Peter McConnell and our thoughts are very much with his victim, who showed great courage in coming forward, and his family.
"When the victim reported the assault to us, we immediately informed the police.
"At the time of the assault, Mr McConnell was not active as a priest and he has since retired from his role as priest in charge at Longhorsley."
A judge adjourned his sentence to carry out a risk assessment before deciding on McConnell's punishment.
Mr McConnell's sentencing is due to take place on 29th July at Newcastle Crown Court.
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