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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4ryLmxCKac
The above video, from the BBC about NWA/Delta 253, is worth reviewing. While a few years old, it touches on some topics that I think we, as frequent flyers, should keep in mind and even apply.
I want you all especially to notice the ideas at the end of the video. The suggestions from the “El AL” security individual. Technology will hopefully help out, but so can we. We who fly all the time know the system; we can be part of the solution.
If we are aware, question, and look around, perhaps we can see something not right. After all, do you think a frequent flyer alerting someone about a person who you think is not acting right would be appreciated? Even if it delays your flight by a few minuets, think what it could gain if your suspicions prove true. If not, no big deal.
I would very much like to know what you all think about this. Has there ever been a time where you have seen something and thought I really should say something to someone and did not? Have you ever spoken up before or got involved? I have before and would and will again! – René
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I applaud you for bringing this important reminder to light.
I fall on both sides of the debate. You should report suspicious activity but you need to think before acting. If you have an overly drunk, hostile, or nervous person then it sounds like there is cause to report. There is no way to sugar coat this. I have been on a flight and due to the ethnicity of a passenger another passenger stated loudly their worries. This then puts the original passenger in a position of being accused due to their ethnicity. There may be unintended consequences if they are taken off the plane. Put yourself in their position. It is a strange balancing act we all must endure. Always remember that passengers are more then willing to act when a situation does occur. We do and will protect the flight attendant’s and other passengers.
I worked in the World Trade Center and am still impacted by the trauma of that day. I take airline safety and security seriously, and agree with the “If you see something, say something” concept. Thanks for posting this.
I absolutely have noticed and said something to an FA. Several years ago, I happened to be sitting in first class and I saw a man get on the plane, put a bag in the overhead bin and get off the airplane. I looked at the woman sitting next to me and asked her if she saw what I saw and would she back me up if I notified the FA. She said yes and we rang the call button and told the FA. FA investigated and found the passenger in the gate area. He said he left something in the gate area but they did check his bag out and we were good to go. I’ve also told people they need to power down their electronic devices but I try to be as polite as possible. It’s my responsibility to myself and I take it seriously.
I was in Northern Ireland during the troubles and you always looked out for suspicious objects and unattended luggage/bags. A couple of years back I saw a suitcase standing on its own inside a large US hub and watched it for 10 or 15 minutes and saw no-one coming near it. I reported it to airline staff who just ignored it. If you’d been in Ireland in the 70’s you would have run for cover rather than ignore it!