American Airlines Flight Attendant Calls on CEO to Change Handling of Sexual Assault Cases

Rhea-AI Summary

An American Airlines flight attendant, Kimberly Goesling, calls for changes in the airline's handling of sexual assault cases after alleging she was assaulted by a hired celebrity chef. In a letter to CEO Doug Parker, she announced her retirement after over 30 years with the airline and described her experience of inadequate support following the incident. Goesling's lawsuit highlights the airline's failure to conduct proper background checks and provide promised treatment. Her case is set for trial on January 24, 2022.

Positive

• The lawsuit has the potential to prompt American Airlines to enhance its policies and training regarding employee safety and support for assault victims.

Negative

• The airline faces a lawsuit that exposes serious allegations about its handling of sexual assault cases, which could damage its reputation.
• Claims include the failure to conduct background checks on employees and inadequate support for assault victims.

FORT WORTH, Texas, Dec. 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- An American Airlines (NASDAQ:AAL) flight attendant is calling on the company's top executive to make fundamental changes in how the airline handles cases involving employees who, like her, are sexually assaulted in the course of their employment at American.

In her letter to American Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Doug Parker, Kimberly Goesling also informed the airline of her intent to retire, following a flying career that spanned more than 30 years. Her lawsuit against the airline, including accusations of sexual assault and retaliation, is set for trial January 24.

"I shouldn't be the one who has to leave," Ms. Goesling writes. "It should be you that left long before now, you and every other manager and individual at American who played a role in making the company's response to my sexual assault yet another attack on me and my family."

To read the letter and watch Kimberly read it, click here.

In the letter, Ms. Goesling calls on the airline and its management to live up to its own standards, which encourage employees to speak up if they suspect illegal or unethical conduct. She also suggests the airline provide additional training for managers dealing with sexual assault victims so that they will no longer ask – as they did in her case – what the victim was wearing when attacked.

"I think Kimberly feels an obligation to the women and men who will remain behind at the airline," says attorney Robert Miller of Miller Bryant LLP, who represents Ms. Goesling. "Her hope is that, in writing this letter, she can create change at the airline because they certainly seem to need it."

Ms. Goesling's lawsuit alleges she was attacked while in Germany by a celebrity chef whom American hired without conducting a background check. Evidence in the case shows the airline continued to employ him even after it learned of prior allegations against him for alcohol abuse and inappropriate sexual conduct.

When she reported the attack to the company, managers promised to pay Ms. Goesling for treatment and allow her time away from work shifts, as needed. They did neither, instead removing her from her coveted position on the airline's recruitment team, according to the lawsuit.

Click here to watch Ms. Goesling discuss the attack or go to metooaa.com to learn more.

The case is Kimberly Goesling v. American Airlines et al., Cause No. 342-314565-20 in the 342nd Judicial District Court in Tarrant County.

Dallas-based Miller Bryant LLP represents companies and individual clients from the U.S., Canada and the Far East. We focus on Texas business law and civil dispute resolution. More information at https://www.miller-bryant.com/.

Contact:
Mark Annick
800-559-4534
mark@androvett.com

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SOURCE Miller Bryant LLP

FAQ

What is the lawsuit involving American Airlines and Kimberly Goesling about?

The lawsuit involves allegations of sexual assault against flight attendant Kimberly Goesling by a celebrity chef hired by American Airlines, claiming inadequate support from the airline.

When is Kimberly Goesling's trial against American Airlines scheduled?

The trial for Kimberly Goesling's lawsuit against American Airlines is set for January 24, 2022.

What are Kimberly Goesling's accusations against American Airlines?

Goesling accuses American Airlines of failing to support her after her assault and not conducting proper background checks on the assailant.

What changes is Kimberly Goesling calling for at American Airlines?

Goesling is calling for changes in how the airline handles sexual assault cases, including better training for managers.

What are the implications of Kimberly Goesling's letter to CEO Doug Parker?

The letter could lead to changes in company policies regarding sexual assault cases if American Airlines responds adequately.