American Airlines Breaks Silence On Removing Tsarukyan

The video of UFC lightweight Arman Tsarukyan being escorted off a flight has received an explanation from the carrier.

American Airlines issued a statement clarifying that the decision to return the aircraft to the gate was based on a refusal to follow mandatory safety protocols. Tsarukyan and two members of his team were removed en route to Philadelphia for his wrestling match at RAF 08. A spokesperson for American Airlines confirmed that the pilot was forced to abort the taxiing phase due to non-compliance with federal aviation rules.

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“On April 16, American Airlines flight 513 returned to the gate at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for customers who refused to follow federal regulations. Safety is our top priority and we expect our customers to comply with crew member instructions while on board our aircraft, which include staying seated while the aircraft is taxiing.”

Initial reports indicated a team member refused to put their phone on “Airplane Mode” and another had a tray table down during the take off. After being escorted off the commercial flight, Tsarukyan didn’t let the setback stop him from reaching the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia. Shortly after the incident, Tsarukyan posted from the cabin of a private jet.

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