Flight attendant accused of damaging aircraft equipment

Airline Industry Information, Dec 29, 2004

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2004 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

A flight attendant was accused of damaging emergency equipment aboard 14 flights, causing them to be delayed or canceled.

Steven R. Hirtzinger (23) is accused of tampering with equipment aboard US-based carrier Pinnacle Airlines flights, including fire extinguishers, oxygen tanks and breathing gear used by pilots in emergencies, according to a complaint filed by the airline.

The sabotage allegedly began in August and continued through Wednesday (22 December), claims the airline. Hirtzinger's attorney said Hirtzinger will plead not guilty and that he had reported the equipment problems to a supervisor.

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