Paul Frishkorn, an American Airlines flight attendant and union representative based in Philadelphia, died from coronavirus on Monday, the airline revealed this news on Thursday.
A report was released by American Airlines which says, “We lost a beloved, long-time member of the American Airlines family earlier this week who tested positive for COVID-19,”
It further throw condolence to the attendant’s family “Our hearts go out to loved ones of Paul, many of whom work for Americans.”
Lori Bassani, chairman of the Union of Qualified Flight Attendants, that also includes 27,000 American Airlines flight attendants, said in a tweet, “We announce with deep sadness that one of our own… has passed away from Covid-19,”
Frishkorn, 65, had been characterized as a staunch advocate for the flight attendant corps that spent time “answering questions and assisting our members through this difficult time” in the Philadelphia crew room before he fell ill
He further said that, “Paul is the only one of our coworkers to lose his life as a result of this lethal virus. We are deeply touched, and we are reassured that no measure would be too much to undertake in this dreadful moment,”.
Bassani while talking to USA Today at phone said that the death of Frishkorn has intensified the already grave concern of flight attendants operating in this tough times and exposed to this highly infectious virus.
Frishkorn has been twice honored for his dealings with customers as one of American Flight Service Champions. Tracy Sear, an American Airlines flight attendant, told CNN he was a greater-than-life influence who appreciated figure skating and adored to laugh.
It was announced by the Airlines that, new safety initiatives will be introduced beginning on Friday and concluding on April 3. The airlines will provide “limited” food and drink choices to ensure more social isolation and reduced interaction between flight attendants and passengers.
Also passengers can now consider changing their seating plan to help with social distancing and also the airlines will “block” all seats neighboring to flight attendant jumps.
No meals or snacks will be served for flights less than four and a half hours away. However Beverages will be available “on request.”
Longer journeys can remove snacks, but offer beverages as usual, and provide travelers in the main cabin with daily meals. Passengers in first class should be offered their meals on “one tray except in courses.”