A United Airlines passenger was caught on camera assaulting an airline worker after his flight was allegedly canceled, authorities confirmed.
Christopher Stuart Crittenden, 54, a retired Montgomery County Fire Department Captain, was filmed launching into a violent tirade at the airport Thursday night.
In the footage, Crittenden, carrying a shoulder bag and backpack, attempts to enter the jet bridge as passengers disembark from another flight. When a gate agent blocks his way, he snaps.
“I’m done with this bulls,” he yells before winding up and delivering a forceful punch to the employee’s face.
The airline worker collapses instantly, lying motionless on the ground as shocked passengers look on.
Airport officials rushed the injured worker to a local hospital for treatment. Crittenden was swiftly arrested and charged with assault and disorderly conduct. Authorities suspect he was intoxicated at the time, Fox 5 DC reports.
Shocking images obtained by TMZ show security officers standing over a handcuffed Crittenden as he sits near the gate.
“United sucks,” he reportedly shouted while being escorted away.
A fellow passenger told The New York Post that Crittenden had already secured a seat on another flight but was enraged over his travel ordeal.
United Airlines has since confirmed that the Maryland man is now banned from flying with the carrier.
The attack has reignited calls for tougher measures against violent airline passengers.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), which represents airline employees, condemned the incident, stating that airline staff deserve a safe work environment.
“Our members deserve a workplace where they can focus on providing excellent customer service—not one where they fear being attacked by passengers,” IAM said in a statement.
“This latest incident is yet another example of the unacceptable rise in violence against frontline airline workers. Immediate action is needed to address it.”
IAM further warned that violence against airline employees is increasing, often with “minimal repercussions” for offenders.
“Any disruptive behavior—whether due to intoxication, aggression, or other factors—introduces unnecessary risks to airline operations,” the union said, urging the Department of Justice to enforce stricter penalties.
United Airlines and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority have not yet commented on the incident.
