Layover Advisory
The need to exercise a strong level of personal security awareness during layover activities was reinforced by a recent incident where two pilots may have been drugged by drink spiking and then robbed during a layover. Although this particular incident occurred while on an international layover, criminal events of this nature can happen at any layover location, domestic or international. It is an important reminder that we must consistently plan and practice vigilance to avoid being victims of crime.
Security during a layover begins with planning and continues with personal conduct at the particular layover destination. Plan your activities by gaining situational awareness of the areas you intend to visit during the layover; conduct yourself during the layover by dressing appropriately and by avoiding higher-risk areas (danger by location or by time of day).
Significant resources are available to help you prepare for your layovers. <redacted>
Consider these common sense behaviors when planning your layover activities:
- Depending on the layover location, consider staying within the layover facility to the maximum extent possible
- Ask at least two hotel representatives about the local neighborhood and areas to avoid
- Utilize only authorized transportation or transportation prearranged by hotel or restaurant staff
- Do not wear clothing which depicts your nationality or display jewelry
- Carry a separate layover wallet when venturing out, and secure valuables in a front pocket
- Never leave your food or drink unattended; If possible order sealed drinks to be opened by you
- Be aware of your immediate personal surroundings
- Avoid walking alone; Utilize the buddy system when venturing out
- Stay on familiar and well traveled routes possessing adequate lighting with an exit route
Reporting a criminal event is extraordinarily important for you and your fellow crewmembers. It is especially important if you believe that you or one of your fellow crewmembers have unknowingly been exposed to an illegal substance while on layover. There are Flight Operations Manual (FOM) provisions that provide guidance on this topic, and you should contact ALPA and your chief pilot immediately in these instances. In the case of a serious emergency at an international location, you should immediately contact the closest U.S. Consulate, U.S. Consular Agency, or the U.S. Embassy. Multiple notifications will also ensure everyone is made aware of dangerous situations; report your experience to the layover hotel, local police department, the Company and Aviation Security Committee <redacted>
