A passenger on an American Airlines flight was restrained with adhesive tape and handcuffs after making racist and homophobic insults. According to the New York Post, this incident occurred last Thursday on a flight traveling between Dallas and Newark.
Initially, the passenger began insulting the person seated next to him, which led to the intervention of a flight attendant and other travelers. However, when the flight attendant, who is of African descent, intervened, the man intensified his racist and homophobic attacks.
The individual's aggressive behavior escalated, culminating in aggression towards the neighboring passenger and damage to their computer. Subsequently, a female passenger attempted to help but was pushed by the passenger, forcing the intervention of three more passengers.
Given the situation, the cabin crew proceeded to tie up the passenger using adhesive tape and restraints. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the flight was diverted to Thurgood Marshall International Airport in Baltimore/Washington.
Authorities detained the passenger, according to an FBI spokesperson. American Airlines confirmed the incident, stating that on September 3rd, flight 618 was diverted to Baltimore due to a problematic passenger.
In a statement cited by the New York Post, the airline added that upon landing, the police were already at the boarding door to assist with passenger disembarkation. The company emphasized that the safety of customers and staff members is its highest priority and that violence will not be tolerated.
Several images from the moment were shared on social media, showing the man tied with adhesive tape to the airplane seat.