14 passengers banned by airline after rowdy DC to Seattle flight

Alaska Airlines banned more than a dozen passengers this week for not complying with its mask mandate and for harassing staff members.

The 14 passengers were banned from flying with the airline after they were “non-mask compliant, rowdy, argumentative and harassed our crew members” on a flight from Dulles International Airport in Washington, DC, to Seattle on Thursday evening, according to a statement from Alaska Airlines.

“Their behavior was unacceptable,” the statement from the airline said. “We apologize to our other guests who were made uncomfortable on the flight.”

When asked for more detail on the passengers, the airline told CNN that they’re “focused on the individual actions of those passengers and their non-compliance with our mask policy.”

“We’re thankful and appreciative of the efforts of our dedicated crew members who are committed each day to keeping travel safe and respectful,” the airline said.

Alaska Airlines says it has banned 288 passengers for violating its mask policy since it went into effect — a number that does not include these 14 passengers.

Other airlines have banned passengers for not complying with mask rules while flying.

Across the country, anti-maskers have, in some cases, threatened or assaulted employees when asked to wear a mask, leading the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to issue a recommendation in August to not argue with customers if they become violent.

In a statement sent to CNN, FAA Administrator Steve Dickson said a cabin crew’s “primary responsibility” is to ensure the safety of people on board.

“I expect all passengers to follow crew member instructions, which are in place for their safety and the safety of flight,” Dickson said.

“The FAA will pursue strong enforcement action against anyone who endangers the safety of a flight,” he added, “with penalties ranging from monetary fines to jail time.”