A 67-year-old Arizona real estate agent lost his job and faces criminal charges after passengers duct-taped him to his seat during a racist tirade on an American Airlines flight bound for Newark Airport.

Passengers Restrain Disruptive Traveler

Arthur Lundeen of Arizona became severely disruptive on American Airlines Flight 618 departing from Dallas, forcing passengers to intervene when flight attendants could not control the situation. Two New Jersey men, Richard O’Lenick and Juan Mejia, a former police officer, witnessed Lundeen shouting racial and homophobic slurs before he became physically aggressive. The incident escalated to the point where flight attendants first attempted to use zip ties, then resorted to duct tape to secure Lundeen to his seat.

Mejia explained the careful approach they took during the restraint. The passengers ensured they did not cover Lundeen’s eyes, nose, or mouth while applying the tape. The goal was preventing him from harming himself or others aboard the aircraft, not causing additional injury. The flight was ultimately diverted to Maryland, where authorities arrested Lundeen upon landing.

Swift Employment Consequences

Long Realty in Tucson, where Lundeen worked as a real estate agent, moved quickly after learning about the incident. The company posted a statement on Facebook announcing they had immediately terminated their affiliation with Lundeen. The statement emphasized that he no longer has any association with or authorization to represent Long Realty in any capacity. The company made clear their position on the matter through their prompt action and public statement.

Criminal Charges and Witness Accounts

Lundeen now faces disorderly conduct and assault charges following the midair incident. O’Lenick and Mejia, both from Woodland Park, New Jersey, described how flight attendants initially attempted to de-escalate the situation. Mejia recounted that Lundeen was spitting venom at the crew through derogatory remarks and racial comments. The former police officer warned Lundeen he would intervene if the behavior escalated further. Both men expressed satisfaction that they could assist in preventing further harm to passengers and crew members aboard the flight.

American Airlines released a standard statement following the incident, declaring that the safety and security of customers and team members remains their top priority. Contact information for Lundeen’s attorney was not immediately available.