NEW YORK (AP) — A United Airlines passenger, Yisroel Liebb, has filed a lawsuit after a flight incident that he describes as humiliating and distressing. This event occurred during a flight from Tulum, Mexico, to Houston, where Liebb, an Orthodox Jew, faced challenges while using the bathroom on the plane.
According to the lawsuit, after spending about 20 minutes in the airplane’s bathroom due to constipation, Liebb’s travel companion, Jacob Sebbag, was asked by a flight attendant to check on him. Liebb reassured Sebbag that he would emerge shortly.
However, when Liebb remained inside, the pilot intervened. He allegedly yelled for Liebb to leave and forcibly broke open the bathroom door, pulling Liebb out with his pants down, exposing him to other passengers and crew. The lawsuit claims that this display was not just embarrassing but also deeply disrespectful.
The situation escalated further when, upon landing in Houston, liebb and Sebbag were met by several Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. They reported being escorted off the plane and detained, with one officer allegedly telling Liebb, “This isn’t county or state. We are Homeland. You have no rights here.” The men were later released but missed their connecting flight, resulting in additional costs for a hotel and food.
United Airlines has chosen not to comment on the lawsuit. The Department of Homeland Security has also not provided any statements regarding the incident.
This situation raises questions about the treatment of passengers and the policies airlines have in place to handle emergencies. According to a survey by the US Travel Association, more than 50% of travelers express concerns about how airlines manage emergencies or disturbances on flights, highlighting an urgent need for more humane and effective policies.
While this incident is specific, it reflects a growing concern in air travel about how travelers, especially those from minority communities, are treated. Historically, air travel has been shaped by numerous incidents of discrimination and mistreatment, emphasizing the need for airlines to reassess their operational protocols.
As the story develops, it brings attention to the need for better training for cabin crews and a more respectful approach to passenger privacy and dignity. Emerging discussions on social media suggest that many travelers are rallying for systemic changes in how incidents like this are handled, pushing for advocacy and reform within the airline industry.
You can read more about the lawsuit and the details surrounding it through AP News.
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