Angry Air Travelers Lash Out at Each Other During Summer of Not-So-Fun Travel

Pandemic-Related Delays, Flight Cancellations, and Lost Luggage Are Among the Causes

By Bloomberg News

As the summer travel season kicks into high gear, so too are the reports of angry air travelers lashing out at each other. Pandemic-related delays, flight cancellations, and lost luggage are among the factors contributing to the increase in air rage incidents.

In one recent incident, a passenger on a Southwest Airlines flight allegedly punched a flight attendant in the face after being asked to stow his carry-on luggage. In another incident, a passenger on an American Airlines flight allegedly threw a cup of coffee at a flight attendant after being told that the plane was delayed.

"We've definitely seen an increase in air rage incidents this year," said Sarah Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants. "The combination of pandemic-related delays, flight cancellations, and lost luggage is creating a perfect storm for passenger frustration." Nelson said that flight attendants are doing their best to deal with the increase in air rage incidents, but they are also asking for patience and understanding from passengers.

"We understand that travel can be stressful, but we're asking passengers to please be respectful of flight attendants and other passengers," Nelson said. "We're all in this together, and we want to make sure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable travel experience."