American Airlines Diverts; Passenger Restrained, Seatmate Alleges Assault

Flight Diverts After Passenger Incident

An American Airlines flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Newark diverted to Baltimore on September 3, 2026, after passengers restrained an unruly individual. Layne Lundeen, 67, of Tucson, was identified as the passenger involved in the incident aboard flight 618. His seatmate, author Jonathan Cahn, has since detailed an alleged assault.

Cahn claims Lundeen made antisemitic threats and initiated a physical struggle. Following the event, Lundeen's real estate firm has ended its association with him. This incident highlights challenges faced by airline crews and passengers managing disruptive behaviour during air travel.

Seatmate Details Alleged Assault and Threats

Jonathan Cahn, a Messianic Jewish minister, states he was the passenger attacked by Lundeen. Cahn recounts that an initially friendly conversation, which spanned several hours, escalated dramatically.

He alleges Lundeen began cursing him and Jesus, then threatened to "punch [his] effing Jewish face in." Cahn further claims Lundeen struck his laptop, worsening existing screen damage, and placed his hands around Cahn's neck. A subsequent struggle over the laptop aggravated an existing injury to Cahn's left arm.

He indicates he signalled flight attendants for assistance during the altercation. Cahn disputes early accounts that portrayed Lundeen as shouting about Jesus, clarifying that Lundeen was cursing Jesus.

Passengers Intervene, Use Duct Tape for Restraint

Several passengers intervened to subdue Lundeen. Retired law enforcement officer Juan Mejia, seated two rows ahead, observed Lundeen with his hands on Cahn's neck. Mejia, along with fellow passenger Richard Olenick, assisted in restraining Lundeen. Mejia reported that Lundeen bit him during the initial efforts.

The first restraints, which were zip ties, proved insufficient as Lundeen continued to struggle and pull his hands free. Flight attendants then provided duct tape. Passengers used this tape to secure Lundeen's body and head, as he reportedly attempted to headbutt and bite those around him.

Legal and Professional Repercussions Follow

Upon landing in Baltimore, police removed Lundeen from the aircraft. Authorities reported that Lundeen attacked an officer after his restraints were removed. He was subsequently released on his own recognisance on September 4. Lundeen's state trial is scheduled for October 19, where he will face charges related to the incident.

In a direct consequence of the inflight events, Long Realty, Lundeen's real estate firm, confirmed it had terminated its affiliation with him. The upcoming legal proceedings will provide further clarity on the incident's specifics and the potential repercussions for Lundeen. This event underscores the need for effective protocols against passenger misconduct.