China Air Transport Association Backs China Eastern After Crew Harassment Incident, Says Airline Filed Police Report

China Eastern Airlines (NYSE: CEA; HKEX: 00670) has formally filed a police report after a passenger verbally attacked and threatened cabin crew following a minor in-flight food cart collision, the China Air Transport Association said in a statement dated Oct. 5, 2026. The airline completed evidence preservation and arranged psychological counseling for the crew, who had apologized repeatedly and attempted service recovery, CATA said. The association said the passenger's conduct exceeded legitimate complaint channels and may violate aviation and public security laws. CATA cited China's Civil Aviation Law, effective July 1, 2026, which bans disruptive behavior and abuse of flight crew while adding a passenger rights protection section. It urged member airlines to tighten onboard incident procedures and called on passengers to pursue grievances through complaints, appeals or litigation. CATA said it will monitor the case and push carriers to strengthen frontline staff protections.