Passenger Restrained With Duct Tape on American Airlines Flight

A 67-year-old passenger was restrained by fellow travelers after allegedly becoming unruly on American Airlines flight AA618 from Dallas to Newark. The passenger, identified as Arizona resident Arthur Lundeen, was accused of insulting cabin crew and other passengers and using racist and vulgar language.

A former law enforcement officer traveling on the flight and another passenger intervened after Lundeen allegedly became physical. His hands were restrained with zip ties, while duct tape was used to secure him to his seat. The aircraft was diverted to Baltimore/Washington International Airport due to the incident.

After the aircraft landed in Baltimore at around 10:15 p.m. local time, Lundeen was taken into custody by police. Maryland Transportation Authority Police said he was charged with disorderly conduct and second-degree assault. Paramedics also examined Lundeen after officers noticed an open wound on his arm. The flight later continued to Newark. The FBI is investigating the incident that occurred in the air, while the FAA is also reviewing the diversion.

📸: Richard Olenick