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Passenger Duct-Taped to Seat After Racial and Homophobic Outburst Forces Flight to Divert

Federal authorities are reviewing the midair assault to decide whether to bring federal charges.

The unruly passenger was restrained until the flight landed and law enforcement officers were able to board the plane and remove him.
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An American Airlines flight is seen in this representational image. An unruly passenger aboard an American Airlines flight had to be duct taped to the seat.

Overview

  • Passengers and crew on American Airlines Flight 618 restrained a disruptive traveler during the flight on Sept. 3, 2026, using zip ties and layers of duct tape and the pilots diverted the plane to Baltimore.
  • Witnesses say the man hurled racial and anti‑gay slurs and became physically violent, striking a seatmate and pushing another passenger as crew tried to intervene.
  • Maryland Transportation Authority Police arrested the man at BWI and identified him in reports as 67‑year‑old Arthur Lundeen of Arizona, who has been charged with second‑degree assault and disorderly conduct.
  • The FBI is interviewing witnesses and consulting the U.S. Attorney’s Office about possible federal prosecution while the FAA and American Airlines continue separate safety investigations.
  • The episode underscores ongoing pressure on cabin crews and regulators as the FAA reported more than 1,160 unruly passenger incidents in 2026 and can issue civil penalties in addition to criminal cases.