American Airlines announces new measures after flight attendants were forced to face ‘politically motivated assault’ on DC flights

(CNN) – American Airlines says it is taking several new “precautionary” measures, including no longer serving alcohol on flights to and from Washington, DC, after several incidents in which flight attendants “were forced to confronting passengers demonstrating political aggression towards other passengers and crew. “

“We work closely with local law enforcement and airport authority partners to ensure the safety of our customers and members of our team on the ground and in the air,” the airline’s statement said.

In a message to union members, the president of the Professional Flight Attendants Association said union leadership was aware of incidents on several flights to DC.

“As security professionals, we are well trained in handling in-flight disruptions, but we should never find ourselves dealing with politically motivated verbal or physical altercations on board,” the post said.

He ordered the flight attendants to continue to “maintain situational awareness and attempt to resolve all safety and security issues on the ground.”

“Stay very vigilant on flights out of the Washington, DC area for the next few days, and involve your fellow crew members if you have any safety concerns.”