Fred Butts, a crew chief on the ramp at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), has been named an American Airlines 2024 Safety Champion. Worldwide, a total of 40 honorees from work groups across the airline and from as far as Ireland and Brazil were recognized.
At American, Butts has led various safety initiatives, including designing specific ramp markings for parking baggage carts in the gated environment. His work reduced traffic conflicts and improved safety when connecting baggage drivers deliver bags to the gate area.
In addition, he’s been recognized for his advocacy for hearing protection.
Safety, however, is not a one-person job, and Butts recognizes this. “It’s not just about me,” he says. “Everyone on my team is 100% committed to safety.”
When new members join his team, he sits down and talks about safety. Butts, who joined American in 2015, says he wants his team to come to work every day and leave in the same condition.
At the 2024 Safety Champions celebration dinner held June 10 in Fort Worth, Texas, David Seymour, American’s chief operating officer, acknowledged the work of the honorees: “From gestures like mentoring new pilots or participating in safety committees to helping develop bump caps that led to a reduction in head injuries — you are the best of the best. I commend each and every one of you for your hard work, and most importantly, dedication to safety each and every day.”
What is American's Safey Champion Award?
American’s Safety Champion Award recognizes team members who go above and beyond in the name of safety. They provide ideas and insights and are leaders at their work location with one common goal: keeping American’s customers and team members safe.
