United Airlines Flight Diverts to Omaha After Passenger Assaults Crew Member

A recent incident involving United Airlines flight UA 2410 has drawn attention. The flight was traveling from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). Its final destination was Salt Lake City (SLC). However, the aircraft made an unscheduled flight diversion to Omaha (OMA). This change was necessary due to an unruly passenger who assaulted a crew member.

Incident Details and Federal Charges

The incident occurred on December 28, 2025. Reports indicate the passenger, Jordan Robert Langston, became erratic. He reportedly shouted that the flight was a “simulation.” Langston allegedly assaulted a crew member assault and a passenger assisting the crew. The flight crew declared a Level 2 threat. This designation indicates physically abusive behavior. The aircraft, a Boeing 737, landed at Eppley Airfield. Law enforcement met the plane at the gate.

Langston now faces federal charges. He is charged with interference with flight crew members. This charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. It also includes a fine of up to $200,000. This swift legal action underscores the severity of such in-flight offenses.

Industry Context and Safety Concerns

This United passenger assaults crew event adds to a growing trend. Unruly passenger incidents remain a major concern for the industry. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) tracks these events closely. The FAA reported 2,102 unruly passenger incidents in 2024. This was a slight increase from 2,076 cases in 2023. The agency maintains a FAA zero-tolerance policy for such behavior.

International data shows similar challenges. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) noted a rise in incidents. In 2023, there was one incident for every 480 flights. This is up from one per 568 flights in 2022. Physical abuse incidents, while rare, increased by 61% in 2022 over 2021. These incidents pose a serious risk to commercial aviation safety.

Impact on Operations

A flight diversion to Omaha causes significant airline operational disruption. It forces schedule changes and creates delays for all passengers. The cost to airlines can be substantial. It includes fuel, landing fees, and crew time. The incident highlights the need for stronger deterrence. IATA urges governments to ratify the Montreal Protocol 2014. This protocol aims to close jurisdictional gaps. It ensures that offenders can be prosecuted worldwide. For more updates on this and other industry news, visit our commercial aviation news section.

• Key Takeaways for Stakeholders:
  • Safety Risk: Physical assaults threaten crew and passenger safety.
  • Operational Cost: Diversions result in significant financial and schedule impacts.
  • Legal Deterrent: Federal charges reinforce the severe consequences of misbehavior.