American Airlines passenger duct-taped to seat after mid-air meltdown loses his job

A 67‑year‑old Arizona resident, Arthur Layne Lundeen, was traveling first class on an American Airlines flight from Texas to New Jersey when he allegedly became unruly.

According to passenger Juan Mejia, Lundeen was intoxicated and began berating the seatmate, then attacked him, using a racial slur against crew, refusing commands. Passengers and crew restrained him; he bit a passenger’s hand, leaving teeth marks, and was covered in his own blood.

The plane diverted to Baltimore, Maryland. Lundeen was zip‑tied and duct‑taped to his seat for the final 15 minutes before being arrested by Maryland Transportation Authority police on charges of disorderly conduct and second‑degree assault. The FBI has taken over the investigation.

Long Realty, where Lundeen worked as a real‑estate agent, terminated his association after learning of the incident. He waived his right to counsel at his first court appearance on September 4. The company emphasized its commitment to proper conduct.

American Airlines issued a statement confirming the diversion and cooperation with law enforcement, stressing that safety and security are top priorities and that violence is not tolerated.