Aviation Safety

“A People Problem in the Air” (March 11) was most interesting and more than a little disturbing to me as I am a flight attendant with 22 years experience. My purpose in writing is to point out that fatigue affects flight attendants just as it does pilots, but we are not protected by federal regulations.

Some flight attendants are protected by labor contracts which will cover minimum rest periods, but many flight attendants who work for small airlines are not provided such protection. In some cases they are on duty for up to 20 hours in one duty period. We are responsible for cabin safety and for evacuating passengers in a crash. In order to respond in an emergency situation a flight attendant must be alert, must respond quickly and correctly.

The Coalition of Flight Attendant Unions is attempting to remedy this problem at the federal level. We have been successful in getting legislation introduced in the House which would require limitations on flight and duty time for flight attendants. The bill was introduced by Rep. Norman Mineta (D-San Jose). The bill has a good chance of passing but we need the support of the traveling public. CHARLIE COSTELLO

Communications-Education Chairperson

Assn. of Flight Attendants

Council 12, Los Angeles