2.05.21 – Super Bowl Human Trafficking Awareness

Friday, February 5, 2021

Super Bowl Human Trafficking Awareness

The Super Bowl, which this year takes place in Tampa, FL, on Sunday, is a sporting event that is considered to attract traffickers who try to profit off of their victims. These criminals often use the convenience of commercial aviation to transport victims. Flight Attendants are in a unique position to identify it, report it, and save lives.

In 2017, U.S. police arrested 750 suspects in Super Bowl sex-trafficking stings. Six minors and 86 adults were rescued.

As safety professionals and aviation’s first responders, our responsibilities continue to grow and evolve. We are the eyes and the ears in the cabin, and we can often sense when something is not right. Maintain a heightened awareness leading up to and following the Super Bowl, especially on flights in and out of Tampa and other Florida airports. Stay alert around hotels in the Tampa area.

Indicators of Human Trafficking:

• Not controlling their own ID or travel documents.
• Having restricted movement
• Lacking knowledge or logical means of reaching their final destination.
• Non-genuine relationship, particularly child/guardian.
• Appearing fearful, anxious, depressed, submissive, tense, nervous, or paranoid.

If you suspect human trafficking:

• Inform the cockpit
• Call the Department of Homeland Security Tip Line: 866-DHS-2-TIP (866-347-2423)
  • Or submit your tip online here.
• Call Department of Transportation National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-3737-888
  • Or text 233733

Thank you for your vigilance this weekend and always.

In Solidarity,

Allie Malis
APFA Government Affairs Representative

Lori Glattly
APFA Government Affairs Representative

[email protected]