Quantcast

American Airlines joins Blue Lightning Initiative to combat human trafficking

American Airlines joins Blue Lightning Initiative to combat human trafficking
Policy
Webp 5r3vc2svdh8ibaxk8gr8iutw0za2
Simple Flying | Simple Flying

American Airlines has announced an expansion of its efforts to combat human trafficking by joining the Blue Lightning Initiative. This initiative, a collaboration with the US Department of Transportation and the US Department of Homeland Security's Customs and Border Protection, focuses on training airline personnel to identify potential traffickers and victims.

Gary Tomasulo, American Airlines Vice President of Corporate Security, emphasized the importance of this initiative in fighting human trafficking. "American has long partnered with law enforcement to help fight human trafficking, and we are proud to deepen our partnership by joining the initiative," he stated.

The airline's involvement in anti-trafficking efforts is not new. In 2020, American Airlines became a signatory of Transportation Leaders Against Human Trafficking through a DOT initiative. Before joining the Blue Lightning Initiative, it was part of the Blue Campaign under DHS's Center for Countering Human Trafficking.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

American Airlines already trains over 70,000 team members annually on recognizing signs of human trafficking. The Blue Lightning Initiative will enhance this training for flight attendants, pilots, customer service representatives, and other staff.

With a fleet that includes more than 1,500 aircraft and operations spanning over 60 countries, American Airlines acknowledges its role in addressing human trafficking risks on international routes. In 2023 alone, it carried more than 210 million passengers.

The airline also supports various human rights partnerships like It's A Penalty and Protecting All Children from Trafficking (PACT). In 2024, American Airlines donated miles to these organizations and hosted awareness sessions at several major airports in collaboration with DHS or other partners.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

London Heathrow, recognized as Europe's busiest airport, will soon experience an increase in its flight offerings by Oman Air.

Sep 2, 2025

Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport will commence safety and airfield improvement projects on Runway 12R-30L in two distinct phases throughout 2025.

Aug 22, 2025

Delta Air Lines is adjusting its service between Atlanta and Anchorage, extending flights beyond the summer travel season to a year-round offering.

May 15, 2025

In December 2022, Southwest Airlines faced a major crisis as operational challenges led to the cancellation of 16,900 flights, affecting nearly two million passengers during a peak travel period.

Apr 19, 2025

Harrison Ford, an acclaimed actor known for roles such as Han Solo in "Star Wars" and Indiana Jones, is also a noted aviation enthusiast.

Apr 19, 2025

Iberia Airlines has confirmed a notable shift in its flight schedule connecting Madrid and Dallas/Fort Worth, introducing its first overnight service from Europe to the US.

Apr 19, 2025