American Airlines Flight Attendant Based in Philadelphia Dies of COVID-19

March 31, 2020

An American Airlines flight attendant in Philadelphia died Monday after being diagnosed with COVID-19.

Paul Frishkorn, 65, worked more than 30 years with U.S. Airways and then American Airlines, according to the Fort Worth-based airline and the union representing flight attendants.

“Our hearts go out to Paul’s loved ones, many of whom work for American," said a statement from American Airlines spokesman Andrew Tull. "We are working directly with them to ensure they are cared for during this extraordinarily difficult time. He will be missed by the customers he cared for and everyone at American who worked with him.”

Frishkorn had underlying health conditions.

“Our industry, our airline and all of us have been affected by COVID-19 in different ways,” said a message from the Association of Professional Flight Attendants to members. “But until now, we hadn’t lost one of our own. This loss hits home in a very different, personal way from the headlines.”

American has had a handful of employees diagnosed with COVID-19, including a baggage handler at DFW International Airport and a pilot.

Flight attendants at American, Southwest and other carriers have been pushing for better health protections for crew members who interact in close contact with passengers. On Tuesday, Southwest said it’s discontinuing on-board beverage and snack service and only giving closed cans of water to passengers upon request.

In the last few days, American and Southwest have also changed rules to allow flight attendants to wear face masks and protective gloves.

Frishkorn’s family was not able to be reached for comment, but in his answering machine message, he said he was very ill and awaiting results of a COVID-19 test.

“We have flight attendants right now who are self quarantined, flight attendants who have been diagnosed with the coronavirus,” said Sara Nelson, international president of the Association of Flight Attendants. “We lost a dear friend [Monday], who worked really hard for us for 30 years.

“This is going to get harder," she said. "It’s not going to get easier.”

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