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American Airlines Flight 618 Diverts After Passenger Restrained

9/6/2026

Summary

Crew Subdues Passenger

American Airlines flight 618 diverted to Baltimore after crew duct-taped passenger Arthur Lundeen to his seat.
The disturbance began on Sept. 3, 2026, two hours after takeoff, when Lundeen shouted slurs and assaulted passengers.
Retired officer Juan Mejia, Richard Olenick and two others used zip ties and duct tape to restrain Lundeen.
The flight landed at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport at 10:15 p.m.; Lundeen was arrested on assault and disorderly-conduct charges.

Summary

FBI Investigates

FBI Baltimore field office opened an investigation and consulted the U.S. Attorney’s Office on possible federal charges.
Federal Aviation Administration launched its own probe into the flight’s safety procedures.
Lundeen was released on his own recognizance and faces trial on Oct. 19 in Glen Burnie.
His LinkedIn profile listed him as vice president of Long Realty before the page was removed.

Summary

Attendants Restrain

U.S. commercial flights carry duct tape and zip ties, and crews are trained to use them.
Flight 618 on a Boeing 737-800 must have at least four flight attendants.
In November 2024, passengers duct-taped a disruptive traveler’s wrists and ankles after he tried opening doors.
FAA recorded over 1,160 unruly passenger incidents in 2026 and can fine up to $43,658.

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Crew Subdues Passenger

American Airlines flight 618 diverted to Baltimore after crew duct-taped passenger Arthur Lundeen to his seat.
The disturbance began on Sept. 3, 2026, two hours after takeoff, when Lundeen shouted slurs and assaulted passengers.
Retired officer Juan Mejia, Richard Olenick and two others used zip ties and duct tape to restrain Lundeen.
The flight landed at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport at 10:15 p.m.; Lundeen was arrested on assault and disorderly-conduct charges.

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