American Airlines Passenger Duct-Taped To Seat Like Mummy After Racist, Anti-Gay Slurs

A passenger was duct-taped to his seat after allegedly going on a racist and anti-gay tirade and becoming violent during an American Airlines flight from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport to Newark Liberty International Airport.

The incident happened Thursday night, September 3, as the flight was traveling from Fort Worth to Newark. The aircraft was diverted to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, where law enforcement met the plane and took the passenger into custody.

According to eyewitnesses, the man, who appeared to be drunk, began yelling at a male passenger sitting next to him. TMZ reported that he was screaming about Jesus and going to hell, prompting a Black flight attendant to approach and try to calm him down.

The passenger allegedly called the flight attendant the N-word and made anti-gay remarks using a homophobic slur. His behavior reportedly became increasingly aggressive, with sources saying he hit the passenger next to him and struck the man's computer.

A female passenger then reportedly stepped in to help but was pushed by the man. Three other male passengers came to her aid.

According to TMZ, flight attendants handed duct tape and zip ties to the three men, who used them to restrain the passenger to his seat. Photos from the incident show the man heavily wrapped in duct tape, including around his hands and head, while video captures crew members and passengers restraining him.

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the flight was diverted to Baltimore and landed about 15 minutes later. Law enforcement met the aircraft at the gate and took the man into custody.

The FBI told TMZ that Maryland Transportation Police arrested and booked the man on state charges. The agency is gathering facts and consulting with the US Attorney's Office for the District of Maryland to determine whether federal charges will be filed.

American Airlines said Flight 618 diverted to Baltimore "due to a disruptive customer" and that law enforcement assisted with removing the passenger before the flight continued to its destination.

The airline added that the "safety and security" of its customers and team members was its "top priority."

Naman is a copy editor at Times Now, with over three years experience in covering US News, politics, global affairs, sports, and other domains. Apart ... View More