Overview
- Passenger-shot video shows the captain directing Rodríguez to disembark before takeoff on the Quito–Miami flight after a tense exchange.
- Reports differ on what triggered the clash, with some citing a crew request to re-stow his bag and others a complaint from a nearby passenger.
- Rodríguez says he complied with moving the bag, made a remark that offended a crew member, apologized repeatedly, and felt humiliated by the removal.
- The singer’s musical director left the aircraft in solidarity, and Rodríguez returned to a hotel to await a later departure.
- American Airlines had not issued an official account at the time of reporting, leaving open questions about procedures for medical carry-ons and de‑escalation.