Re: Inflight violence

Mike Sheffer (msheffer_at_jpc.com)
Sun, 13 Sep 1998 16:58:21 -0400

DV Gordge wrote:
>
> Dear Mike
> I have read your email & visited your Rage Page.
> I am an airline pilot with the national carrier and you have my full
> support. I cannot abide bad manners, much less the violence - and
> frustration - that you and Renee must have suffered. Many years ago, while a
> young f/o, I was travelling as a pax in Y class, when a raucous party
> continued despite the flight attendants' plea's. The Captain then appeared,
> spoke severely to the inebrients who listened silently, but who promptly
> gave the Captain "the bird" once he had departed, and continued their
> inconsiderate antics. I decided there and then that when I became a captain
> and was presented with a similar scenario, I would not just talk, but take
> strong action. This incident was not violent like yours, but it helped me
> make up my mind 20 years ago.
> In this country, we often have similar "problems" with unsuccessful
> prosecutions. I have read that some carriers now "yellow card" disorderly
> pax a-la
> football style and that 2 cards = a red card i.e., we don't want your
> custom. This might be successful in combating legal ineffectiveness.
> Good luck.
> Regards,
> Dennis
> dvgordge_at_iafrica.com
> fax: 27 31 408-1503

Dear Dennis,

Thank you for your kind words. I believe that Renee and I are quite
fortunate to belong to such a close knit family as we have found among
aviation professionals.
We have recieved encouragement from flight crew from many places, but
if I read your E-Mail address correctly.. Africa?
I am very pleased that word of our group, and what we are trying to
accomplish is truly becoming international. If you would, please E-Mail
back with your postal address. I'll send you a few "No Skyrage" decals.
I'll attach some other info on the group's objectives to this E-MAil
I hope that you may find some of the information useful, or at least
thought provoking. I am unfortunately, without data on the problem from
your corner of the world. Could you, or one of your fellows enlighten me
further? I am always eager to learn more, and how others are searching
for solutions. What works, what dosen't, and how we can all learn from
each other. I really appreciate your writing, you have given a bright
spot to my day!
Thanks again,
Mike Sheffer
PO BOX 19725
Charlotte NC USA
28219 9725
msheffer_at_wbtv.com