Congressman Cohen Questions Experts on the Surge in Air Rage Incidents

WASHINGTON - Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and its Aviation Subcommittee, today questioned expert witnesses at a hearing on "Disruption in the Skies: The Surge in Air Rage and its Effects on Workers, Airlines, and Airports."

Congressman Cohen said that the way some flight attendants have been treated by unruly passengers refusing to wear face masks is "unacceptable" and "inexcusable." He also sought to discover whether the incidents of air rage are disproportionately occurring in airports located in Southeastern Conference states. He also asked why airport bars are allowed to stay open after airport restaurant concessions close.

See his entire line of questioning here.

Witnesses at today's hearing were:

• Sara Nelson, International President, Association of Flight Attendants - CWA;
• Teddy Andrews, Flight Attendant at American Airlines (Appearing on behalf of Association of Professional Flight Attendants);
• Christopher R. Bidwell, Senior Vice President, Safety, Airports Council International - North America; and
• Lauren Beyer, Vice President, Security and Facilitation, Airlines for America.

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