Airlines Resorting to 'Extraordinary Measures' to Protect Airport Workers in Extreme Cold

Jan. 31, 2019
The polar vortex and historic subzero temperatures affecting the Midwest call for extraordinary measures.

Southwest Airlines is doling out industrial-grade coats, gloves and face masks and canceling curbside check-in at Chicago's Midway International Airport.

Across town at O'Hare International Airport, American Airlines set up a mini command center Tuesday and on Wednesday will deliver hand warmers and extra gloves, hot chocolate, coffee and tea to baggage handlers and other outside workers from a mobile warming van.

United is adding temporary heated shelters and bringing ramp workers to Chicago from other cities to rotate into the schedule so employees spend less time outside.

Read more: https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/flights/2019/01/29/face-masks-hot-drinks-cancellations-airlines-cope-polar-vortex/2714684002/