United Airlines passenger slugs flight attendant in face after claiming he’s in a ‘simulation’
A United Airlines flight was forced to divert after a disruptive passenger allegedly assaulted crew members and caused a security incident mid-flight.
Jordan Langston, 25, is accused of causing a disturbance on a flight bound for Salt Lake City on Sunday. Shortly after the plane departed Dulles International Airport near Washington, DC, Langston reportedly left his seat and moved toward the front of the aircraft, waving his arms and shouting that the situation was a “simulation,” according to the Lincoln Journal Star.
When a flight attendant asked him to clarify his statements, Langston repeatedly responded, “This flight,” before running to the back of the plane and continuing to gesture erratically. He allegedly stepped on a crew member’s foot and shoved another after being warned that the aircraft would return to its origin if his behavior continued, FBI Special Agent Patrick Manion said.
The pilot declared a Level 2 security threat but initially continued toward Salt Lake City after Langston returned to his seat and appeared to calm down. About 30 minutes later, however, Langston reportedly became disruptive again, flailing his arms in the aisle, shadow boxing, and allegedly punching a flight attendant in the face.
Several passengers intervened, restraining Langston and moving him to the rear of the plane. Court documents state that he was placed in handcuffs and made incoherent statements about death. The aircraft diverted to Eppley Airfield in Omaha, where Langston was removed from the plane and taken into custody at the Douglas County jail. The flight later resumed its trip to Salt Lake City.
Langston has been charged with interference with flight crew members and attendants. A judge ordered him held pending trial, citing concerns related to substance abuse and possible mental health issues.
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