American Airlines Fined $50 Million for Disability Rights Violations

Americans rely on airlines to stay in touch with loved ones, conduct business-related travel and get to their favorite vacation destinations. Once you buy a ticket, you are entitled to courteous treatment as you fly what are supposed to be friendly skies. Even more important, airlines and their employees must abide by the law when it comes to passengers with disabilities and other members of legally protected groups.

Sadly, a major carrier repeatedly violated the rights of numerous fliers around the country, triggering a severe penalty. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) fined American Airlines $50 million for repeated violations of disability rights laws. Some of the allegations involved instances of unsafe and inadequate assistance for wheelchair users, mishandling of mobility devices and failures to meet prompt service requirements. In some cases, passengers suffered injuries due to American’s careless practices. Other violations of federal accessibility regulations compromised the dignity and safety of individuals who rely on airline personnel for mobility support.

Another key finding in the investigation addressed the airline’s frequent mishandling of wheelchairs and mobility devices. American reportedly damaged, or delayed the return of, thousands of wheelchairs, leaving travelers stranded without essential equipment. Mobility devices should never be treated as mere luggage. Rather, they are vital components of a passenger’s independence and well-being. Damaging or delaying these devices can have severe emotional and physical consequences for travelers with disabilities.

Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), airlines are required to provide appropriate and timely assistance to passengers with disabilities, including help with boarding, deplaning and wheelchair services. They are also obligated to handle mobility devices with the utmost care. The DOT’s $50 million fine sends a strong message that failure to meet these standards will result in substantial penalties.

It stands to reason that a carrier so callous in its treatment of disabled passengers might display similarly disturbing behavior in its treatment of employees. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, employers are required to make reasonable accommodations for disabled workers who are able to do the job.

If you or a loved one has experienced similar mistreatment from American Airlines or another carrier, consulting with an experienced attorney at Kardell Law Group can help you seek justice and hold the liable party accountable. Everyone should be able to work and travel with dignity and confidence.