Written by Staff Writer by CNN Staff Writer and CNN
Don’t mind if I do — American Airlines CEO Doug Parker said the bathroom assault on a flight attendant that was caught on camera was one of the most “disturbing” incidents in the airline’s history.
According to Parker, the airline is conducting an internal investigation and an external panel of experts has been tapped to conduct a second look.
Parker was responding to a question from US Rep. Albio Sires about whether he had seen the video of a passenger attacking a flight attendant at the gate at Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Thursday morning
“Absolutely not,” Sires said. “I think that you’re right, Mr. Parker. That is one of the most disturbing videos I’ve seen in all of aviation history, if not in world history.”
Also Read: Passenger abuses 3 crew members before assault on flight attendant
American Airlines said the passenger — also known as Justin, TMZ reported — denied assaulting anyone and disputed the account provided by the flight attendant.
A handbook on the American Airlines website says the airline’s cabin crew are prohibited from touching a passenger unless a flight attendant has permission. The handbook also says that these policies are not enforced “unless it is deemed an urgent matter.”
CNN did not immediately reach Parker for further comment on Wednesday.
Warrant given
Fort Lauderdale police said they responded to the Delta Airlines gate to investigate the assault incident, and that the incident was reported to them.
According to a police document seen by CNN, the suspect is under arrest on charges of battery on a flight attendant and battery on a flight crew member.
A $1,000 warrant was issued for the suspect’s arrest, according to the document.