3rd October 2026 – (Hebei) China Eastern Airlines has reported a passenger to public security and suspended his eligibility to fly with the carrier following an incident on 28th September in which a flight attendant repeatedly knelt to apologise after a drinks trolley brushed a traveller’s elbow. The airline said the episode occurred on flight MU6741 from Hefei to Dalian when the crew member, while serving beverages, inadvertently made contact with a sleeping passenger’s elbow. Despite immediate and repeated apologies and checks on his condition, the passenger became agitated, used coarse and aggressive language and allegedly made threats including a demand to kick the staff member. Medical personnel examined the man after landing and found no obvious injuries or need for further treatment.
The company said it has largely completed evidence preservation, fact‑finding and legal assessment, concluding that the traveller’s conduct may have disrupted order on a civil aircraft and seriously infringed the personal dignity and professional rights of its employee. China Eastern confirmed it has formally filed a police report and is assisting authorities with investigation and evidence collection to safeguard employees’ lawful rights and the wider public’s safety and order.
In line with its passenger carriage policies, the airline has paused service to the passenger concerned to ensure orderly operations and a positive travel experience for others. It added that the crew member involved has received care, psychological support and legal assistance, and it expressed gratitude to travellers who helped preserve public order and provide evidence. Reaffirming its stance, the carrier said it firmly supports and will fully protect the professional dignity and lawful rights of frontline staff, while strengthening safety foundations and service standards, and it welcomed public oversight in building a safe, civil, warm and harmonious journey.
