August 17, 2017

ALPA Statement on Barcelona Attack

Today, in Barcelona, Spain, a van plowed into a busy tourist section of the city and struck multiple pedestrians. Media reports this afternoon indicate that at least 13 people have been killed and more than 80 wounded. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families.

ALPA is currently monitoring the situation in Barcelona and we are in contact with multiple government agencies to provide our members with the information needed to safely operate in the area.

The U.S. Embassy in Spain is urging all U.S. citizens to avoid the areas around Barcelona’s Las Ramblas and areas close to Plaza Catalunya. If you are in the Barcelona area, please stay tuned to media and other sources for additional guidance. We recommend all ALPA members in the area remain in doors to the maximum practical extent as the situation is still fluid, and to follow your company guidance.

If you require assistance while in the city, contact the U.S. Consulate in Barcelona, located at Paseo Reina Elisenda, 23 at:

  • +34 93-280-2227, 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday
  • After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +34 93-280-2227, or if there is no answer, please call +372-668-8169
  • Inquiries about American citizen services provided by the Embassy’s Consular Section may be directed to BarcelonaACS@state.gov.

There are presently no known threats to U.S. or Canadian interests. Flights to/from the Barcelona Airport appear to be currently operating.  Additionally, there is no indication of any current threats to aviation assets related to this event.

The attack in Barcelona today serves as another tragic reminder of the need to always adhere to good safety and security measures while traveling, to include:

  • Maintain situational awareness.
  • Avoid any areas of political activity, demonstrations, or protests.
  • Maintain a low profile and avoid wearing clothes that indicate U.S. or Canadian citizenship.
  • Report suspicious behavior while in transit, at a hotel, or in surrounding areas to hotel security and station management.
  • Travel in pairs or small groups and remain aware of entrances and exits.

Additional information will be made available as circumstances warrant.

Questions may be directed to the ALPA Engineering & Air Safety Department (EAS@alpa.org, 800-424-2470). You can also find up-to-date information on all worldwide security items through ALPA’s World Watch Global Security Briefings information and visit the Worldwatch link.

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