BALTIMORE — An American Airlines passenger was restrained with duct tape and zip ties after allegedly shouting racist and anti-gay slurs and becoming violent during a flight from Dallas to Newark, according to the airline and multiple reports.
The disturbance happened aboard American Airlines Flight 618 on Thursday, September 3, 2026. The aircraft was diverted to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, where police took the passenger into custody.
Dramatic photographs from inside the cabin show the man taped to his window seat, with restraints wrapped around his upper body and hands. Video reportedly captured passengers and crew working together to bring the situation under control.
What happened aboard American Airlines Flight 618?
The flight departed Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and was travelling to Newark Liberty International Airport when the disruption began.
According to eyewitness accounts reported by TMZ, the passenger began arguing with the man seated beside him and allegedly made religious statements before directing a racial slur at a Black flight attendant who attempted to intervene.
The passenger was also accused of making anti-gay remarks as his behaviour became increasingly aggressive. Witnesses alleged that he struck the passenger beside him and hit or damaged that passenger’s computer.
A woman who attempted to help was allegedly pushed, prompting three other passengers to intervene. Flight attendants reportedly provided duct tape and zip ties, which were used to secure the disruptive passenger to his seat until the aircraft could land.
The allegations concerning the passenger’s language and conduct are based on eyewitness accounts. Authorities had not publicly identified the man at the time of publication.
American Airlines confirmed that Flight 618 was diverted because of a “disruptive customer.” The airline said law enforcement officers met the aircraft and helped remove the passenger 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 reported by TMZ.
The Federal Aviation Administration said the plane landed in Baltimore approximately 15 minutes after the diversion was initiated. Readers following other recent aviation incidents can also read about the Air Canada and American Airlines near-collision investigation at JFK Airport.
Passenger arrested as FBI reviews possible federal charges
Maryland Transportation Police arrested the passenger after the aircraft arrived at Baltimore/Washington International Airport. He was booked on state charges, according to information provided to ABC News.
The FBI is now conducting interviews and gathering information about what happened aboard the aircraft. The bureau said it would consult with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland to determine whether federal charges should also be filed.
Interfering with a flight crew can result in serious civil penalties and federal prosecution. The FAA maintains a strict policy against unruly passenger behaviour and may pursue enforcement action separately from any state or federal criminal case.
No injuries were immediately reported. After officers removed the passenger, Flight 618 resumed its journey and continued to Newark.
The incident is the latest dramatic disruption involving a commercial flight in the United States. In another recent aviation emergency, passengers were evacuated after an American Eagle aircraft made an emergency landing following a smoke scare in Kansas City.
The investigation remains active, and further information about the passenger’s identity and the exact state charges may be released by authorities.
This article will be updated if law enforcement agencies announce additional charges or release further details.
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