American Airlines passenger duct-taped on plane loses real estate job over alleged racist, homophobic tirade

A man who was duct-taped to his seat on a domestic flight in the US has lost his job over the incident.

American Airlines flight 618 was travelling from Dallas, Texas, to Newark, New Jersey, on September 3 when, about two hours into the journey, a passenger began shouting in the cabin, CBS News reports.

The commotion caught the attention of a flight attendant who approached the man in an attempt to defuse the situation.

But the incident escalated when he allegedly called the African American flight attendant the N-word before hurling homophobic slurs at her.

Fellow passenger, Richard Olenick, was sitting two rows in front and leapt into action to help airline staff restrain the man, who had become increasingly violent.

A photo, captured and shared by Mr Olenick on Instagram, shows the passenger bound to his seat by duct tape that had been wrapped around his torso, arms and head.

The pilot was forced to divert the flight to Washington International Airport so law enforcement could remove the unruly passenger from the plane.

The 67-year-old from Arizona at the centre of the commotion was identified as a real estate agent.

Local outlet KVOA have reported that his employer, Long Realty, has since terminated his employment.

“Long Realty is aware of reports concerning criminal charges filed against a former affiliated real estate agent arising from an incident that allegedly occurred during a commercial flight,” a statement from the company read.

“Upon learning of the incident, Long Realty promptly ended its affiliation with the individual.

“The individual is no longer associated with or authorised to represent Long Realty in any capacity.

“The conduct described in the reports is wholly inconsistent with the professionalism, integrity, compassion, and respect for others that Long Realty expects from those affiliated with the company.

“We expect those associated with our company to uphold those values, and we have no tolerance for conduct that so clearly falls short of those expectations.

“Our focus remains on serving our clients and community in accordance with our values.

“Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew members and others affected by this incident.”

The update on the passenger, who is facing disorderly conduct and assault charges, comes as more passengers share their version of events with NBC News.

Juan Mejia was onboard the flight and said he heard the slurs before the passenger became more physical.

“The flight attendants tried to de-escalate him,” the former police officer said.

“They were just getting spit venom from him, derogatory remarks, racial comments.

“So I said to him, if he escalates from there, I’m going to have to get involved.”

Mr Mejia said flight attendants initially pulled out zip ties before resorting to duct tape, which he applied with fellow passenger Mr O’Lenick.

“I didn’t cover his eyes, I didn’t cover his airways — his nose, his mouth — that was the most important thing,” Mr O’Lenick said.

“We’re not looking to hurt the gentleman, but we’re looking that he doesn’t hurt himself any further, or us or anyone else.

“I’m glad that we were able to do what we did.”

American Airlines said “the safety and security of our customers and team members is our top priority” and that violence was not tolerated.