Sea-Tac Baggage Handler Thefts Prompt Scrutiny

Menzies provided ramp operations for many years in other locations for Alaska before starting in Seattle and is a leading industry provider of ground operations, Alaska spokeswoman Amanda Tobin Bielawski said.

The company has employees at 93 locations in 23 countries, according to its Web site.

"There were some initial challenges with the system in Seattle, but Alaska worked closely with Menzies in identifying and resolving those quickly. We've seen great progress, and they're delivering on their operations," she said.

The thefts didn't concern Greg Curfman, 54, a Kingston resident, who waited for his baggage Tuesday after arriving from Hawaii via Los Angeles. He said he puts his valuables in his carry-on luggage.

But he preferred that Alaska Airlines still used its own baggage handlers, noting that there would be little incentive for a 20-year employee to steal from luggage and lose a union-negotiated salary and pension benefits.

"If you have lower standards, you're apt to have more problems," he said.

STOLEN LUGGAGE

Theft victims should call 206-433-5400 to file a report with Port of Seattle police. Lost claims also can be filed with the Transportation Security Administration, although the TSA recommends travelers also file lost or stolen claims with their airline.

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