An American Airlines flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Newark was diverted to Baltimore late Thursday night after a 67-year-old passenger allegedly became disruptive and violent during the flight.
Flight AA 618 was about two hours into its journey when passengers say the situation suddenly escalated. Witnesses reported hearing yelling and seeing the man allegedly assault another passenger and direct racial slurs, vulgar language and offensive comments toward crew members and other travelers.
Two passengers, Juan Mejia, a retired law enforcement officer, and Richard Olenick, said they intervened when they believed the situation was becoming dangerous. With assistance from a flight attendant, they used zip ties and duct tape to restrain the passenger in his seat until the aircraft landed.
Photos from the flight showed the man restrained with multiple loops of duct tape around his wrists and torso.
The aircraft landed at Baltimore/Washington International Airport around 10:15 p.m., where law enforcement officers took the passenger into custody. The flight subsequently continued to Newark.
Authorities identified the passenger as Arthur Lundeen, 67, of Arizona. Maryland Transportation Authority Police said he was charged with disorderly conduct and second-degree assault in connection with incidents at the airport.
The FBI is investigating what happened aboard the aircraft and said it is conducting interviews before determining whether federal charges will be filed. The Federal Aviation Administration is also investigating the incident.
Police said Lundeen was cleared by paramedics after officers noticed an open wound on his arm during his arrest.
American Airlines said the safety and security of its customers and employees is its top priority and that it does not tolerate violence.
What began as an ordinary cross-country flight ended with passengers physically restraining a fellow traveler and the aircraft making an unexpected diversion — highlighting how quickly an in-flight disturbance can become a serious safety issue.
