American Air flight attendants want more masking, less drinking

The union for American Airlines Group Inc. flight attendants wants to temporarily reduce onboard food and beverage service to lessen the amount of time passengers go maskless during flights.

The Association of Professional Flight Attendants is in talks with American about proposals that would help “maintain the highest level of flight attendant and passenger safety as possible onboard planes,” the union told members in a message Wednesday. Passengers are required by federal mandate to wear masks during flights unless they are eating or drinking.

The union’s proposals include reducing main-cabin beverage service on domestic flights and those to Europe, South America and Asia, and serving entrees at the same time as salad, soup and appetizers in premium cabins when possible, according to the APFA message. Potential changes are complex due to different aircraft types and possible vendor involvement.

American didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.