MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A Muslim couple is suing United Airlines for alleged racial discrimination after they were asked to leave a Minnesota-bound flight in 2011.

Mohammed Al Mulhim and his wife, Dalal Almulhim, sued United and regional carrier United Express in federal court last week.

The couple says they were newlyweds who bought tickets to fly on United from Washington's Dulles International Airport to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport on Sept. 10, 2011.

After they were on board, a United agent told the couple they had to leave the plane because of a problem with their bags. The bags ended up going to Minneapolis while the couple stayed behind.

The couple alleges they were humiliated and are seeking damages.

A United representative says the airline does not tolerate discrimination and will review the claims.