A United Airlines passenger has filed a lawsuit against the carrier, alleging that airline staff repeatedly paged her to the gate over a nonexistent boarding pass issue, only for plainclothes immigration agents to take her into custody before her scheduled flight home. The woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, spent 11 days in immigration detention before a judge ordered her release.
The incident occurred on August 9, according to the lawsuit. The passenger claims that United personnel called her to the gate multiple times, insisting there was a problem with her boarding pass. When she arrived, she was met by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, who detained her. The lawsuit argues that United's actions were intentional and violated her rights, as there was no legitimate reason for the airline to involve immigration authorities.
United has not publicly commented on the pending litigation. The passenger is seeking damages for emotional distress and unlawful detention. The case highlights ongoing concerns about airlines cooperating with federal immigration enforcement, particularly in situations where travelers may be targeted based on their perceived immigration status. A court hearing has not yet been scheduled.
Source: View from the Wing
