American Airlines flight diverted to Baltimore after passenger restrained with duct tape
A Dallas-to-Newark flight was forced to land in Baltimore when crew restrained a disruptive passenger with duct tape, and the man was later taken into custody.
An American Airlines flight traveling from Dallas-Fort Worth to Newark was diverted to Baltimore on Thursday night after a passenger became violent and was restrained with duct tape. Witnesses said the man, who appeared intoxicated, shouted at a fellow passenger, used a racial slur toward a flight attendant and made homophobic remarks before the crew intervened. The airline’s crew secured the individual with multiple loops of tape around his wrists, torso and head, prompting the pilot to request an unscheduled landing.
Law enforcement met the aircraft in Baltimore, removed the passenger and transferred him into custody on state charges. The FBI confirmed it is interviewing witnesses and will coordinate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland to assess possible federal charges. The flight resumed its journey to Newark after the passenger was taken off board.
"The safety and security of our customers and team members is our top priority and we do not tolerate violence. We thank our team members for their professionalism and our customers for their understanding," American Airlines said in a statement.
Authorities have not released the suspect’s identity.