A Ryanair employee was violently assaulted at Palma Airport in Majorca on Sunday when a passenger reacted aggressively over the weight of his luggage. The confrontation escalated after the staff member informed the passenger, a South American national, that his suitcase exceeded the airline’s weight limit. In response, the passenger punched the worker in the face, causing significant injuries.
According to the union CCOO, the Ryanair flight FR2062 was scheduled to depart from Palma to Madrid. Witnesses reported that the incident left the airport check-in area chaotic, with passengers expressing shock and fear as screams filled the air. “Passengers backed away, cell phones captured the moment, and staff attempted to control the man until security arrived,” described one newspaper.
The worker, who required immediate medical attention, reportedly suffered a split lip and lost several teeth during the attack. The assailant also sustained injuries, receiving treatment for a cut on his forehead. Security measures were swiftly enacted, with Guardia Civil officers and Trablisa security guards arriving to apprehend the perpetrator, who was handcuffed and removed from the scene.
Union Calls for Enhanced Airport Security
In the aftermath of the incident, CCOO condemned the violence, labeling it “completely inadmissible” for passengers to respond aggressively towards airport staff. The union expressed solidarity with the injured worker and emphasized the need for a review of security protocols at Palma Airport. They have contacted the Spanish airport authority, AENA, urging improvements in security measures to protect employees.
The CCOO highlighted that violence against workers has become an unfortunate occupational hazard within the aviation industry. They underscored the necessity for airlines to evaluate situations that may lead to aggression and implement preventive strategies. The union also criticized the current state of workplace safety, advocating for adherence to Convention 190 of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which aims to ensure a violence-free work environment.
In their statement, CCOO called for companies to provide support, counselling, and compensation for victims of workplace violence. They advocated for the implementation of effective conflict management protocols, which would furnish staff with clear procedures for handling aggressive behavior. Such measures, they believe, could significantly reduce tensions, enhance communication, and improve overall service quality.
As the situation develops, The Express has reached out to Ryanair for further comments regarding the incident and their plans to enhance security measures in response to this assault.
