United Airlines faces lawsuit over alleged antisemitic incident involving pilot

The situation reportedly escalated when a pilot demanded Leibb leave the bathroom and allegedly broke the door lock to remove him while he was partially undressed. USA Today notes that Leibb "feels sexually violated and embarrassed after having been publicly exposed in the nude," with both passengers experiencing "significant unwarranted delay in their travel plans, physical injuries, great discomfort, extreme emotional distress, and public embarrassment."

After returning to their seats, it is alleged that the pilot pushed them while making antisemitic remarks and threatened arrest. Both passengers were wearing clothing traditionally associated with Judaism at the time.

Upon arrival in Houston, Customs and Border Protection officers reportedly boarded the aircraft and detained both passengers. An officer allegedly told them they had "no rights here." Aviation 24 reports that they were held in separate cells at Houston Intercontinental Airport and missed their connecting flight to New York. Although United booked them onto another flight for the following day, they claim additional costs for food and accommodation outweighed this gesture.

United Airlines declined to comment on the matter when contacted by Simple Flying.