CHARLOTTE- A situation unfolded at the Charlotte airport involving an American Airlines (AA) flight attendant crew who had placed his luggage on a bench.
When a passenger politely asked him to clear some space, the attendant’s partner reportedly became confrontational with the passenger.
American Airlines Crew Attacked by Passenger
In response to the attendant’s apparent indifference – which, while impolite, was not illegal – the passenger decided to record the situation on her phone. However, the flight attendant took a more aggressive step and knocked the passenger’s phone to the ground.
Subsequently, the passenger’s husband became involved and physically restrained the flight attendant by grabbing his chest and pushing him towards the bench. This action could potentially be construed as evidence of assault, reported Viewfromthewing.
According to the passenger’s account, following the incident, the flight attendant claimed that he had been spreading out due to being ill with COVID. This explanation raises some questions, given that he was in uniform and on duty.
However, it’s worth noting that American Airlines provides attendance points to flight attendants who report sick leave, creating an incentive for them to work even when they might not be feeling well, potentially exposing passengers to health risks.
Flight Attendant Strike
American Airlines (AA) flight attendants have joined the ranks of aviation employees who have given their approval for a potential strike.
The Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA), the union representing them, revealed that 93% of their union members participated in a strike authorization vote, with an overwhelming 99.47% voting in favor.
The Association for Professional Flight Attendants (APFA), based in Euless, represents more than 26,000 flight attendants. The voting process will take place from July 28 to August 29, and the results will be announced on August 30.
Following this, the union will organize further pickets at the airline’s hubs across the country.
Under union regulations, only employees who are not scheduled to work are permitted to participate in picketing activities, even during situations where pickets have been a common occurrence in the last couple of years among pilots and flight attendants from different airlines.