CHICAGO, IL (Headline News USA) (Copyright © 2025) James Rondeau who serves as president and director of the Art Institute of Chicago has decided to step away from his duties after reports emerged about an incident that took place on a European flight. The museum issued a statement which confirmed that Rondeau took a leave of absence because an investigation into the incident continues.

An incident took place on April 18 when United Airlines operated a flight between Chicago and Munich. According to CBS News sources Rondeau drank alcohol and took prescription medication before he stripped off his clothes in the middle of the flight. The authorities in Munich received a call after the flight landed.

The Art Institute announced to ABC7 Chicago that Rondeau will step away from work voluntarily while the museum performs an independent investigation. The institution declared its deep commitment to gathering every possible piece of information about this matter.

Rondeau joined the Art Institute in 1998 where he progressed through curatorial positions until his appointment as president and director in 2016. The museum has maintained its collection growth and programming development under his direction.

The Art Institute of Chicago established itself in 1879 as a leading American art museum that displays more than 300,000 artworks. The institution has not given any information about the incident or the expected duration of the investigation.

United Airlines has not commented on the matter.

This article is based on reporting from ABC7 Chicago and CBS News.

Image Credit: Photo of the Art Institute of Chicago by vagueonthehow is licensed under CC BY 2.0.