Passengers on an American Airlines flight were forced to help restrain a man with duct tape and zip ties after he allegedly became violent and hurled racist and anti-gay slurs at passengers and crew.
Arthur “Layne” Lundeen was travelling on American Airlines Flight 618 from Dallas Fort Worth to Newark on 3 September when the disturbance began.
The flight was ultimately diverted to Baltimore, where police arrested Lundeen after he was removed from the aircraft.
He has been charged with second-degree assault and disorderly conduct. The allegations have not been proven in court.
Passenger Allegedly Targeted Black Flight Attendant
Witnesses said Lundeen began shouting during the flight and became increasingly aggressive.
He allegedly used racist and anti-gay slurs, including while directing abuse at a Black flight attendant who was attempting to manage the situation.
Reports also allege that Lundeen struck the passenger sitting beside him and hit the man’s computer. When another passenger intervened, she was allegedly pushed.
Several passengers then stepped in to restrain him.
Flight attendants reportedly supplied duct tape and zip ties, which were used to secure Lundeen to his first-class seat until the aircraft could land safely.
Photos and video from the incident show him restrained across his arms, torso and head as passengers helped keep him in place.
Flight Diverted To Baltimore
American Airlines confirmed that Flight 618 diverted to Baltimore because of a “disruptive customer”.
Law enforcement met the aircraft upon arrival and removed Lundeen before the flight continued to Newark.
“The safety and security of our customers and team members is our top priority and we do not tolerate violence,” American Airlines said in a statement.
The FBI is now reviewing the incident to determine whether federal charges should also be filed.
Lundeen has since been released while the Maryland case proceeds.
Real Estate Company Cuts Ties
Lundeen was identified as a Tucson-area real estate agent associated with Long Realty.
Following reports of the incident, the company confirmed he was no longer affiliated with the business.
Long Realty said the alleged conduct was inconsistent with its expectations around professionalism and respect.
For LGBTQ+ travellers and airline staff, the reported use of anti-gay abuse adds another disturbing element to an already serious alleged assault.
Whatever ultimately happens in court, passengers and crew should be able to travel and work without being subjected to racist or homophobic abuse.
