The passenger who was duct-taped to his seat during an American Airlines flight after an alleged mid-air outburst has been identified as 67-year-old Arizona realtor Arthur Lundeen.
The incident occurred Thursday aboard American Airlines Flight 618, which was traveling from Dallas-Fort Worth to Newark. About two hours into the flight, Lundeen allegedly became increasingly disruptive, directing racist and homophobic slurs toward passengers and crew members.
The situation reportedly escalated into physical violence. Witnesses said Lundeen allegedly attacked a passenger seated nearby and became difficult to control. Passengers and crew eventually restrained him using zip ties and duct tape, securing him to his seat for the remainder of the flight.
Because of the disturbance, the aircraft was diverted to Baltimore/Washington International Airport, where it landed safely at about 10:15 p.m. Law enforcement officers met the aircraft and removed Lundeen before the flight continued to Newark.
The Maryland Transportation Authority Police arrested Lundeen and charged him with second-degree assault and disorderly conduct. He was also treated by paramedics for an open wound on his arm.
The incident is also being investigated by the FBI and Federal Aviation Administration. The FBI said investigators are gathering information and will consult with federal prosecutors about whether additional federal charges are appropriate.
Lundeen was identified in reports as a Tucson, Arizona, realtor who had been associated with Long Realty. His professional profile has since been removed.
American Airlines said the safety of its customers and employees remains its top priority and that it does not tolerate violence aboard its aircraft.