A Frontier Airlines pilot was arrested in Houston, Texas, on Thursday, forcing the airline to cancel a flight.
Houston Police Department officers arrested Seymour Walker, 45, at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, according to police. Walker was “wanted on an assault-family violence warrant” filed by the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Department of Public Safety.
“The activity occurred prior to the start of boarding for Flight 3195 scheduled from IAH to Dallas Fort Worth (DFW),” the airline told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. “The incident that led to the arrest was not related to Frontier or the pilot’s performance of his job duties. A replacement crew member was not immediately available and therefore the flight was canceled.”
The arrest stemmed from an alleged April 6 assault, when Walker’s wife told police he punched her in the stomach after the couple began arguing while watching their son’s basketball game.
“During the argument, (she) became frustrated and cursed at Seymour which then led to Seymour becoming angry and punching Tamisha in the stomach,” an arrest affidavit said.
Walker left the area when his wife called the police. She alleged he had assaulted and choked her in the past as well.
Frontier gave affected customers the option to get a refund, credit or be rebooked on its next available flight later that night. “Passengers were also provided a $100 flight voucher, and overnight hotel accommodations as needed,” the airline added.
Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].