Passenger Arrested for Violent Behavior on American Airlines Flight

Incident on Flight 618

An American Airlines passenger, Arthur Layne Lundeen, 67, from Arizona, was arrested after causing disruption on a Dallas to Newark flight. Other passengers restrained him using duct tape and zip ties after he became violent and used racial slurs. The flight was diverted to Baltimore Washington International Airport for further action.

The FBI informed Newsweek that interviews are underway to gather facts, and consultation with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland will determine if federal charges will be filed. Lundeen faces charges of second-degree assault and disorderly conduct.

Details of the Incident

The flight left Dallas Fort Worth International Airport heading to Newark Liberty International Airport when Lundeen’s behavior escalated. Juan Mejia, a passenger and former officer, stated that Lundeen became belligerent, using vulgar and racial language. Mejia and another passenger, Richard Olenick, intervened when the situation turned physical.

“It went from quiet to yelling and chaos suddenly,” Mejia told CBS News.

Lundeen allegedly assaulted a passenger next to him, leading to his restraint using duct tape and zip ties on his hands. Photos captured show the man with injuries while tied to a first-class seat.

Olenick shared his perspective in a CBS interview, emphasizing the need to control the situation due to uncertainty about Lundeen’s intentions.

After the diversion to Baltimore, law enforcement removed Lundeen, allowing the aircraft to proceed to Newark. American Airlines reinforced its policy against violence, prioritizing passenger and employee safety.

Background on Arthur Lundeen

Lundeen is a resident of Tucson, Arizona, and has been listed as an associate broker with Long Realty Company, though his contact information is currently inactive on their website. Court records charge him with second-degree assault and disorderly conduct. Released after an initial court appearance, Lundeen is due back in court on October 19.

FAA Investigation and Statistics

The FAA confirmed an investigation into Flight 618’s disturbance. They stated it landed safely post-incident, continuing its journey to Newark.

Unruly passenger reports have surpassed 1,160 in 2026, according to FAA data. This remains over 80 percent less than early 2021 levels, when nearly 6,000 incidents came in across the year.

• Civil penalties can reach $43,658 per violation, with multiple incidents increasing fines.
• Assault, intimidation, or interference with crew carries potential criminal charges.
• Punishments include a possible 20-year prison sentence, or even life if a weapon is involved.

Passenger misconduct can lead to loss of TSA PreCheck and inclusion on airline no-fly lists.