American Airlines Passenger Restrained With Duct Tape After In-Flight Incident
An American Airlines passenger was arrested after an alleged disturbance aboard Flight 618 forced the aircraft to divert to Baltimore on September 3, 2026. The flight was traveling from Dallas-Fort Worth to Newark when the situation escalated, according to authorities and the airline.
The passenger was identified as 67-year-old Arthur Lundeen of Arizona. Maryland Transportation Authority Police said he was restrained to his seat with duct tape, while his hands were secured with zip ties before the aircraft landed at Baltimore/Washington International Airport.
What Happened on American Airlines Flight 618?
According to passenger accounts reported by news outlets, the disturbance began after Lundeen allegedly became increasingly disruptive during the flight. Witnesses said he directed offensive remarks toward crew members and other passengers before the situation became physical.
Two passengers, including former law enforcement officer Juan Mejia, intervened when the situation allegedly escalated. They helped restrain Lundeen until the aircraft could land safely in Baltimore.
The passenger was reportedly secured using zip ties and duct tape after the initial restraint was not sufficient to control the situation. Authorities later boarded the aircraft after it arrived at Baltimore.
Why Was the Flight Diverted to Baltimore?
American Airlines Flight 618 was originally traveling from Dallas-Fort Worth to Newark. Because of the disruptive passenger incident, the aircraft was diverted to Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI).
American Airlines confirmed that law enforcement met the aircraft after landing and assisted with removing the passenger. The flight subsequently continued to Newark after the incident was handled.
Arthur Lundeen Arrested After Landing
Maryland Transportation Authority Police arrested Lundeen following the incident. He faces charges of disorderly conduct and second-degree assault related to events at or around the aircraft after it arrived at BWI.
Police also said paramedics evaluated Lundeen after officers noticed an open wound on his arm while taking him into custody.
The alleged conduct that occurred during the flight remains under investigation by the FBI.
FBI and FAA Investigations
The incident has attracted investigations from multiple authorities. The FBI is examining the reported events that occurred while the aircraft was in the air, while the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is also investigating the disruption.
Because the investigation is ongoing, some details about exactly what happened inside the aircraft may change as authorities gather additional evidence and witness statements.
What Did American Airlines Say?
American Airlines said the safety and security of passengers and employees are its highest priorities and that the airline does not tolerate violence. The company also thanked its crew and passengers for their cooperation during the incident.
The aircraft continued its journey to Newark after the disruptive passenger was removed.
What Happens Next?
The investigation is expected to determine the full circumstances surrounding the alleged in-flight conduct and whether additional federal action is necessary.
For now, Lundeen faces state-level charges of disorderly conduct and second-degree assault, while the FBI continues investigating the events that reportedly occurred during the flight.
Key Facts
- Airline: American Airlines
- Flight: AA 618
- Route: Dallas-Fort Worth to Newark
- Diversion: Baltimore/Washington International Airport
- Passenger: Arthur Lundeen, 67
- Restraint: Duct tape and zip ties
- Charges: Disorderly conduct and second-degree assault
- Investigating agencies: FBI, FAA and Maryland Transportation Authority Police
This story is developing and may be updated as authorities release additional information.
