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Southwest Airlines pilot cited for assault in mask dispute
A Southwest Airlines pilot could face criminal charges after a heated debate with a flight attendant colleague over wearing masks escalated.
It happened in a hotel bar during a layover.
The case is in the hands of the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office which will decide if charges are appropriate.
The San Jose Police Department confirmed the incident last month but hasn’t confirmed an alleged assault and battery
Southwest responded with a staff memo to pilots and flight attendants.
"Crossing the line in a heated conversation can be a violation of our guidelines for employees and can even end in loss of job," it said.
"We are aware of this matter and the fact that the investigation continues. As with all flight attendants we represent, we will support our member in accordance with the law and our collective bargaining agreement,” flight attendants union, TWU Local 556, said in a statement.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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