More than two thirds of US flight attendants have been sexually harassed
More than two-thirds of flight attendants say they have experienced a #MeToo moment in the friendly skies.
A survey released by the Association of Flight Attendants says 68% reported incidents of sexual harassment by passengers.
More than half of these have taken pace in the last year with verbal harassment and lewd and inappropriate comments.
It said 18% were subjected to physical harassment including being ‘touched, grabbed, groped, slapped, and fondled’.
AFA president Sara Nelson said sexism has always been a part of the airline industry and is urging action to combat mid-air harassment which can impact flight safety.
“Harassment of flight attendants is legendary, but this survey shows just how commonplace it remains, even during the #MeToo era,” Nelson said in a statement.
“It’s time for all of us – airlines, unions, regulators, legislators and passengers – to put a stop to behaviours that can no longer be condoned. The dignity and well-being of flight attendants and the safety of all travellers depend on it.”
The survey collated comments from 3,500 flight attendants employed at 29 US airlines.
Only 7% reported the harassment to their employer and about two-thirds of FAs were not aware of any specific procedures in place to address harassment claims.
The AFA said it has been working with Alaska, United and Spirit Airlines to help revamp their anti-harassment policies, training and reporting procedures.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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