Airlines Face Increasing Challenges with Unruly Passenger Incidents

An assertive group of travelers subdued an unruly passenger on an American Airlines flight last week after he allegedly attempted to force open a plane door mid-air. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of passenger misconduct following the COVID-19 pandemic, with over 1,850 incidents reported this year, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

During a flight from Milwaukee to Dallas-Fort Worth on Tuesday, the disruptive passenger made alarming demands to a flight attendant, stating he wished to «exit the aircraft now,» as reported by the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Department of Public Safety. As tensions escalated, the flight attendant sought assistance from passengers in the cabin.

The situation became physical when the unruly passenger rushed towards the plane’s L1 exit door, injuring the flight attendant in the process. Doug McCright, a passenger on board, intervened by restraining the individual with a bear hug, preventing any potential threat. «He was bound and determined, he wanted off that plane,» McCright told reporters. «I was bound and determined, he wasn’t getting off that plane.»

With the help of other passengers and flight attendants, the man was subdued using duct tape to bind his wrists, knees, and ankles. Following the incident, the aircraft landed safely, and the passenger was taken by FBI and airport public safety officers for a mental health evaluation.

American Airlines expressed gratitude towards their staff and passengers for resolving the situation, stating, «The safety and security of our customers and team members is our top priority.» The FAA has announced an investigation into the incident, underscoring the agency’s ongoing efforts to address unruly passenger behavior.

Records from the FAA indicate that unruly passenger incidents have remained a significant concern since a spike in 2021, where nearly 6,000 cases were reported. Although there has been a decline, 2023 still witnessed over 2,000 incidents resulting in more than 400 enforcement actions and $7.5 million in fines.

Notably, last month, a passenger faced charges for assaulting another traveler on a United Airlines flight. Similarly, in September, a man threatened passengers on a Frontier Airlines flight, prompting a legal case where he has pleaded not guilty to federal charges.

CNN correspondents Pete Muntean and Marnie Hunter contributed additional details to this report.