A passenger on an American Airlines flight had to be restrained with duct tape and zip ties following an outburst in midair, which resulted in the plane being redirected. This incident occurred on a flight traveling from Dallas-Fort Worth to Newark, New Jersey, which made an unexpected stop in Baltimore late Thursday night due to this disruptive passenger. Witnesses reported that the man was creating a hazardous situation.
It’s alleged that he was shouting racial slurs and homophobic remarks, according to reports. Video footage captures moments of crew and fellow passengers securing him to his seat while he struggled. Images revealed the man was tightly bound to his seat, even having his head restrained.
Witness accounts indicate that the trouble began roughly two hours into the flight when the individual started yelling at a male passenger beside him. Apparently, he was shouting about religious themes and threats of hell, which prompted a flight attendant to intervene. Unfortunately, the man directed a racial slur at the Black flight attendant and continued with his aggressive behavior, reportedly hitting the passenger next to him.
Another passenger, a woman, attempted to help, but the man pushed her away, resulting in three other male passengers stepping in to assist.
Juan Mejia, a retired police officer who was present, described the sudden shift from calm to chaos, stating it was like “a light switch” being flipped. He witnessed the man attacking the passenger next to him.
Flight attendants then provided duct tape and zip ties to the men who restrained him to his seat as he fought against it. Following the diversion to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, law enforcement took custody of the unruly passenger.
American Airlines confirmed the incident, explaining that upon arrival, law enforcement assisted in deplaning the disruptive individual before the flight continued on to its original destination.
The airline emphasized that passenger and crew safety is their primary concern and that they have zero tolerance for violence. They also expressed gratitude towards their team members for managing the situation effectively and thanked passengers for their understanding.
The Maryland Transportation Police arrested and processed the man on state charges, with the FBI stating they are gathering facts and may consult with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to see if federal charges should be pursued.
