Man arrested after disruptive passenger forces DFW-to-Newark flight to divert to BWI

BALTIMORE (7News) — A man is facing state charges after an American Airlines flight from Texas to New Jersey was diverted to an airport in Maryland because of a disruptive passenger, according to officials.

American Airlines Flight 618 landed safely at BWI around 10:15 p.m. Sept. 3 after the crew reported a passenger disturbance, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said.

The flight had departed Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and was headed to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).

American Airlines said law enforcement met the aircraft after it landed in Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) and helped remove the disruptive passenger from the plane.

The FBI Baltimore Field Office confirmed Friday that it responded to BWI following the diversion.

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According to the FBI, one man was arrested on Maryland state charges and booked by the Maryland Transportation Authority Police.

The man’s name, the specific charges he faces, or further details about what allegedly happened aboard the flight were not provided.

The FBI said agents are conducting interviews to gather additional information and will consult with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland to determine whether federal charges should also be filed.

The flight later continued to Newark.

“The safety and security of our customers and team members is our top priority, and we do not tolerate violence,” American Airlines said in a statement.

The airline thanked its crew members for their professionalism and passengers for their understanding.

The FAA is also investigating.

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Airlines have reported more than 1,160 disruptive passenger incidents to the FAA so far in 2026.

The FAA investigates passenger disturbances reported by airlines and can pursue enforcement against passengers accused of assaulting, threatening, intimidating, or interfering with airline crew members.

Civil penalties can reach up to $43,658 per violation, and a single incident can result in multiple violations. Unruly passengers may also face criminal charges.

The FBI encourages victims and witnesses of crimes aboard aircraft to report them to flight crews, airport police or the FBI.