Dallas, Texas – American Airlines faced backlash after initially placing blame on a 9-year-old child for being filmed in an airplane lavatory by a former flight attendant. However, the airline quickly backtracked on their defense of the child and stated that they do not believe she is at fault.
The incident came to light when FBI agents informed the child’s parents that videos of her were found on the phone of the former flight attendant, who is currently in custody. The court filing by American Airlines, which was quickly amended, initially denied allegations and included defenses like contributory negligence, insinuating the child used the compromised lavatory with knowledge of the recording device.
The lawsuit filed by the child’s parents claims that the former flight attendant, Estes Carter Thompson III, secretly filmed their daughter in the lavatory during a flight to Los Angeles. Thompson faces charges of attempted sexual exploitation of children and possession of images depicting child sexual abuse.
In response to the airline’s initial defense, the child’s mother expressed shock and anger, stating that American Airlines was blaming their daughter for the incident. The family’s lawyer criticized the airline’s actions, pointing out that blaming a child for being filmed was unacceptable.
Despite facing public backlash, American Airlines did not reach out to the family after the incident came to light. The airline’s handling of the situation has raised questions about their commitment to passenger safety and response to such sensitive matters.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of airline companies taking responsibility for ensuring the safety and well-being of their passengers, especially children. It also sheds light on the need for thorough screening and training of airline staff to prevent such incidents in the future.
As the legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on seeking justice for the child and holding those responsible for the filming accountable. American Airlines’ swift reversal of their initial defense highlights the power of public scrutiny in driving accountability and transparency in the airline industry.