A tense situation unfolded aboard an American Airlines flight from Milwaukee to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport on Tuesday when passengers and crew restrained a man who allegedly tried to open a cabin door mid-flight. The man, reportedly carrying a Canadian passport, was subdued using duct tape after becoming increasingly agitated, according to FOX 4 KDFW.
Attempt to Open Cabin Door Sparks Chaos
The incident began when the man approached a flight attendant, claiming he “needed to exit the plane immediately.” His behavior escalated, and he allegedly rushed toward a 79-year-old female flight attendant to gain access to the cabin door. Witnesses say three passengers quickly intervened, pinning the man down and restraining him with duct tape on his legs and wrists.
Flight Lands Safely Amidst FBI Response
The flight landed safely at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport just after 10 a.m., where airport police and FBI agents boarded the plane. Even as authorities arrived, one passenger reportedly continued kneeling on the restrained man to ensure he couldn’t escape. The disruptive individual was then escorted off the plane in a wheelchair.
Injuries and Airline Response
The flight attendant involved in the altercation sustained wrist and neck injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment. In a statement to Fox News Digital, American Airlines praised the quick thinking of its team and passengers, emphasizing that “the safety and security of our customers and team members is our top priority.”
The airline also clarified that the duct tape used to restrain the man is part of an onboard safety kit designed for elevated security situations. The incident underscores the challenges of maintaining security during in-flight emergencies and highlights the importance of passenger cooperation in crisis scenarios.
