Concerns Over Unsanitary Conditions at Airline Catering Facility

Complaints of unsanitary conditions at a facility in Inglewood have raised health concerns for workers. Photos and videos showing green mold, maggots, cockroaches, and flies were sent to the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) by workers from a catering company called Flying Food Group. This company prepares in-flight meals for airlines operating from Los Angeles International Airport.

The complaint, filed by workers and supported by the union Unite Here Local 11, alleged exposure to health hazards and lack of sanitation standards. The facility serves international airlines such as Lufthansa, Air France, Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic, and Air New Zealand. The union claims that these conditions are part of a pattern of unsafe work environments at the facility. Flying Food Group countered the allegations, describing them as false and misleading, claiming that the submitted photos do not accurately reflect the conditions.

One of the workers, Sonia Cerón, reported finding dishes covered in moldy food, maggots, and flies. The complaint stated that she was instructed to clean these dishes despite their unsanitary state because they were needed for an upcoming flight. Cerón described experiencing health issues while handling these dishes, including stomach pain and headaches. The company did not provide protective equipment or masks to reduce airborne risks, according to the complaint.

Flying Food Group is based in Chicago and operates 19 catering facilities across the U.S., serving airlines at major airports. The union has filed numerous complaints concerning wage and health issues at the Inglewood facility. In 2023, the National Labor Relations Board found the company guilty of disrupting union activities, including blocking exits during a planned protest.

Several incidents, including sexual harassment complaints, have been filed against the company, which disputed the allegations, citing prompt investigation and termination of the supervisor involved in the harassment. Flying Food Group also resolved a class action lawsuit related to wage violations and agreed to a settlement of $510,000. The subcontractors were previously ordered to compensate workers with $230,000 in back-pay.

The Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) governing body initiated a review following a facility fire earlier this year. Workers reported blocked emergency exits during the incident, leading Cal/OSHA to issue fines. Flying Food Group’s response included filing an appeal against the penalties.

In light of ongoing concerns, LAWA opted for a temporary six-month extension of Flying Food Group’s license despite unresolved investigations. The board noted the company’s obligations regarding labor law compliance. Further developments are awaited as airport officials have not responded to inquiries regarding the status of these investigations.