3.26.20 – In Memoriam – Paul Frishkorn

Friday, March 26, 2020

In memory of Paul Frishkorn

(Paul Frishkorn in the center in the blue shirt, pictured with the
SBA team when he served as APFA Regional Representative)

Dear Fellow Flight Attendants,

It is with great sadness that we are letting you know that Paul Frishkorn, a longtime member of the American Airlines family, passed away this week after testing positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19). Paul was 65 years old and the first American team member to lose his life after contracting the illness.

Our industry, our airline and all of us have been affected by COVID-19 in different ways. But until now, we hadn’t lost one of our own. This loss hits home in a very different, personal way from the headlines.

Paul joined us as a flight attendant in 1997 and was based in PHL. Over the years he built a reputation as a consummate professional who was honored as a Flight Service Champion twice. He was also a knowledgeable benefits consultant and servant leader for his colleagues through his work with the Association of Flight Attendants while at US Airways and later, with the Association of Professional Flight Attendants.

Our hearts go out to Paul’s loved ones, many of whom work for American. We are working directly with them to ensure they are cared for during this extraordinarily difficult time. Paul will be missed by the customers he cared for and everyone at American who worked with him.

We know that today’s news brings sadness, uncertainty and possibly fear. We might not be able to answer all of the questions you may have in order to protect our colleague’s privacy but know that we continue to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), our Corporate Medical Director, Dr. Stan Miller, and local public health authorities to respond to the pandemic.

American’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to all team members and their families who may need help during a stressful time. EAP is comprised of a dedicated team of experts who are able to provide free and confidential advice to support you and your family. EAP specialists can consult on a range of topics including mental wellbeing, financial health, legal advice, and relationship and family counseling. To access EAP, please visit the Live Well Optum website or APFA’s website.

Please keep Paul’s loved ones in your thoughts. Thank you for taking care of our customers and each other with compassion and professionalism.