What is one of the most annoying things about checking bags at the airport? Having your luggage mishandled by baggage handlers is sure to top the list for many.
According to a report on 12 News in Phoenix, a baggage handler was caught on camera tossing luggage-some of which was marked as containing live tropical fish.
The cameraman, Loudin Krueg, told the news station that he was shocked to see the way the cargo was being treated.
"When I saw him throwing a live animal around, I was like this is more serious than my camera," Loudin said. "This is something that's supposed to be someone's pet, so that's what go to me."
Krueg, a filmmaker who was returning from shooting in Puerto Rico was also concerned about his own cargo.
"Luckily, we packed them in some pretty hefty stuff, but you get worried, when you have $100,000 of stuff sitting under a plane and this guy's throwing it 15 feet in the air," he told 12 News.
For its part, Southwest Airlines swiftly handled the situation and released a statement to 12 News that said the following:
"The video is deeply concerning. We expect our Employees to treat all Customers' luggage and cargo as they would their own. We will work with the Employee to retrain on policies and procedures to prevent this type of handling again.
We are reaching out to those Customers whose shipments were involved and so far have been assured their Cargo shipments were not damaged."
Passengers are right to be concerned about their luggage. Just three months ago, a baggage handler was caught pilfering items from a suitcase on a Ryanair flight to Madrid.
It's always a good idea to pack bags carefully, leaving valuables at home or carrying them onboard with you. TSA approved locks can help prevent items from being taken.
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