Flight Attendant’s Alertness Foils Human Trafficking Attempt on Flight

On an ordinary flight from Seattle to San Francisco, Shelia Frederick, a diligent flight attendant working for Alaska Airlines, made an extraordinary impact. Her keen observation of a strangely paired duo, a well-groomed man and a disheveled teenage girl, ignited a suspicion that prompted her to take a decisive action that ensured the safety of the young girl.

Initial Observations and Concerns

During the flight, Shelia couldn’t dismiss her unease about the girl, who refrained from making eye contact with anyone, contrasted sharply with the seemingly well-to-do man accompanying her. Deciding to act upon her instincts, Shelia devised a plan in consultation with a co-worker, aimed at ascertaining the girl’s welfare without arousing the man’s suspicion.

A Brave Move to Ensure Safety

Overwhelmed by the severity of the situation, Shelia momentarily excused herself and retreated to the back of the plane. With quick-thinking and a stroke of brilliance, she thought of a clever way to communicate with the young girl. Shelia discreetly placed a piece of paper and a pencil in one of the plane’s bathrooms, securing it for the girl’s exclusive use. By mouthing the word “bathroom” and imitating writing, she signaled the girl, hoping she would comprehend the urgency of the situation.

Unveiling the Girl’s Distress

Thankfully, the girl managed to break away from her companion and used the bathroom, with Shelia vigilantly keeping an eye on the man. In the solitude of the restroom, the young girl discovered the note and responded with a desperate appeal for help.

Taking Immediate Action to Save the Girl

Upon receiving the girl’s distress call, Shelia promptly notified the pilot, who relayed the information to ground control to arrange for the man’s arrest upon arrival. Shelia’s heroic actions successfully averted a dangerous situation, saving the girl from the clutches of human trafficking.

Maintaining Connection and the Girl’s Subsequent Journey

In the years following this harrowing incident, Shelia has kept in touch with the girl she rescued. They have had several conversations, and the girl, now freed from her captors, is currently furthering her education in college.

Encouraging Others to Speak Up Against Suspicion

Shelia’s brave actions underline the significance of speaking up when witnessing suspicious activities. She urges others to report their concerns, insisting that an individual’s courage to act can make a considerable difference in preventing harm.

“Speak up when you see something that doesn’t look right,” she says. “One person’s alertness can make a significant difference.” Shelia’s swift response and brave actions not only saved a girl from a potentially dangerous situation but also changed her life, empowering her to reclaim her future.