Flight Safety: FAA Adopts Stricter Unruly Passenger Policy

This week, the FAA issued a new, zero tolerance policy on unruly passengers in the aircraft cabin:

"Effective immediately, the FAA will not address [unruly passenger] cases with warnings or counseling. The agency will pursue legal enforcement action against any passenger who assaults, threatens, intimidates, or interferes with airline crew members. This policy will be in effect through March 30, 2021."

AFA has advocated for strict federal guidelines related to mask wearing and other sources of disruption in the cabin, and this step would not have been possible without union solidarity and advocacy. This policy follows months of Flight Attendants being verbally and physically threatened for enforcing mask mandates, and increased unrest over the last week due to politically-driven conflicts on planes.

"First strike and you're out," said AFA International President Sara Nelson. "We applaud FAA Administrator Dickson for taking this clear stand for our safety and security. This will help serve as a deterrent to unruly passengers who had been bucking the rules of aviation safety. "

This is a new kind of threat in the air. We should work harder to keep problems on the ground. Ensure strict mask compliance before pushback. Work as one crew, communicate, and take your concerns to the flight deck and supervisors.

Delta and airlines across the industry are increasing security measures around the system and especially for flights in/out of the Washington, D.C.-metro area.

We encourage you to carry this email with you as backup in case you experience any trouble. You have the right and duty to assert concern for your safety and that of the passengers in our care.

AFA EAP: Here to Help Delta Flight Attendants

Our union continues to work with airlines, other unions, the FAA, and the TSA to ensure the safety of crews and security of flights. AFA’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a confidential resource available to Delta Flight Attendants, their families and their partners to assist with personal, as well as work-related concerns. Call the International helpline at 1-800-424-2406 or 202-434-0560 to access services.

Lawmakers Agree

After briefings by our union, House Homeland Security Chairman Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) and Ranking Member John Katko (R-NY) urged TSA to add “violent perpetrators” who participated in the Capitol riots to the federal No-Fly List. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chair Rep. Peter DeFazio (OR-04), and Aviation Subcommittee Chair Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) urged immediate action and a zero tolerance policy for unruly passengers on aircraft.

Take care of one another and fly safe.

In Solidarity,

Delta AFA

ICMYI: Delta AFA Activists and flying partners held a virtual Fireside Chat to share stories, address rumors, answer questions and have your voices heard as we work toward a comprehensive commuter policy at Delta that aligns with current industry standards. Link to Commuter Town Hall>