China Eastern Airlines reports passenger to police, bans them from flights after crew member kneels in apology

China Eastern Airlines has reported a passenger to police and banned them from its flights in connection with a recent incident in which a flight attendant was seen kneeling in apology before the passenger.

According to the South China Morning Post and other outlets, China Eastern said in a statement that it had gathered evidence related to the incident and completed a review of the facts and applicable laws. The airline filed a report with public security authorities after determining that the passenger's conduct likely disrupted order aboard the aircraft and seriously infringed on the personal dignity and professional rights of its staff.

The airline added that it had suspended transport services for the passenger under its own regulations, and that it was providing the affected crew member with psychological counseling and legal support.

The incident occurred Sept. 28 aboard a China Eastern flight from Hefei, in China's Anhui Province, to Dalian, in Liaoning Province.

According to the airline, a flight attendant was pushing a beverage cart when it bumped against the elbow of a sleeping passenger. The attendant immediately apologized multiple times and checked on the passenger's condition. The passenger, however, became agitated and threatened to kick the attendant.

A video showing the flight attendant kneeling before the passenger in apology was posted online, fueling widespread controversy in China.

After the aircraft landed, medical personnel examined the passenger and found no visible injuries. The passenger was also determined not to require further treatment. The passenger subsequently declined an airport staff member's offer to accompany them to a hospital and left the airport.