A passenger is suing United Airlines after alleging that a pilot forcibly removed him from an airplane bathroom during a flight. The incident, which reportedly occurred in 2023 on a flight from Houston to Los Angeles, has sparked legal action due to claims of excessive force, emotional distress, and violation of passenger rights.
The plaintiff, identified as Brian Gibbons, claims he was using the lavatory in the first-class section when the pilot suddenly opened the door and aggressively forced him out. Gibbons, who was not a first-class passenger, says the incident left him humiliated and physically shaken. He insists he was unaware that using the first-class lavatory was prohibited and alleges no crew member had previously warned him.
According to the lawsuit, Gibbons was “manhandled” and pushed down the aisle in front of other passengers, causing emotional trauma and embarrassment. His legal team argues the pilot’s actions were unnecessary and extreme, particularly since there was no imminent threat or safety concern.
United Airlines has yet to comment in detail on the incident but stated that it is reviewing the allegations. The airline also emphasized its commitment to treating all passengers with respect and ensuring their safety and comfort onboard.
The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for physical and emotional suffering, as well as punitive damages for what Gibbons’ attorneys describe as “outrageous conduct” by the pilot. The case raises broader questions about how airlines enforce cabin policies and whether crew members overstep boundaries when handling such matters.
This incident adds to a growing list of controversial airline-passenger conflicts in recent years, sparking debate on social media over customer treatment and airline accountability. Legal proceedings are expected to unfold in the coming months, with many watching closely to see how United Airlines responds to the allegations
in court.