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Deregulation
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DEAR DIANA

"There's a lot of talk now about how airline deregulation has achieved its goals of lower air fares and more flights. What are your thoughts on deregulation from the passengers' perspective."

Thanks so much,
Michelle

DIANA RESPONDS

Thank you very much for your question about airline deregulation.

I know of multiple flights in the last few years where passengers have died on board due to negligence that I believe is directly related to post-deregulation airline policies.

This is the hidden downside of deregulation. Deregulation has significantly contributed to the declining "standard of care" on board impacting all passengers' health and safety.

I worked as an international flight attendant for 12 years before deregulation and 9 years after, so I clearly observed the changes in airline policies as they were taking place.

I remember when the airlines started recirculating the cabin air, and as they cut back on cabin crew members. According to my calculations, there are now about half as many crew per passenger as compared to before deregulation.

Since I stopped flying in 1987, I have concentrated on the health and safety of airline passengers, stayed in contact with many people who are still working for the airlines, and new airline employees have contacted me, as well, due to my high profile with my own workers' comp case that went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, and the interest the media has taken in this and in my books about passenger health and safety.

With loving regards,
Diana Fairechild