American Airlines faces a record-breaking $50 million fine for mishandling disabled passengers, urging significant changes in the airline industry.
At a Glance
- Largest fine ever imposed for airline disability violations involves American Airlines.
- Mishandling of over 10,000 wheelchairs and mobility scooters cited in the investigation.
- American Airlines plans substantial investments to improve services to disabled passengers.
- The Department of Transportation continues inspecting similar violations at other airlines.
Historic Fine for Disability Violations
The U.S. Department of Transportation has fined American Airlines $50 million for systematic mishandling of disabled passengers. This punishment, which is the largest ever levied for disability protection violations by an airline, stems from incidents reported between 2019 and 2023 where over 10,760 wheelchairs and other mobility devices were mishandled. The fine includes a $25 million payment to the U.S. Treasury, coupled with a $25 million credit for investments in improving wheelchair handling and related services.
This significant penalty amounts to 6% of American Airlines’ $822 million net profit in 2023, reflecting the gravity of the violations and the government’s commitment to uphold passengers’ rights. The Department of Transportation uncovered unsafe conditions and inadequate assistance for disabled passengers, resulting in numerous complaints and injury reports.
Inadequate Wheelchair Handling
During the investigation, American Airlines was identified as a prime culprit in mishandling mobility devices, trailing only Southwest Airlines in the number of devices damaged. Under federal regulations, airlines are required to return wheelchairs promptly and in good condition, as well as assist passengers with disabilities. As part of the fine agreement, American Airlines must make various operational improvements, including enhancing wheelchair handling processes and deploying a tagging system to ensure better tracking and care for mobility aids.
“The era of tolerating poor treatment of wheelchair users on airplanes is over” – Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg
American Airlines has already improved its overall wheelchair handling rate, achieving over a 20% increase in care quality since 2022. Additionally, the airline is investing over $175 million in new technologies and training programs to prevent future incidents and ensure better service for passengers with disabilities.
Future Implications and Reactions
The Department of Transportation continues to investigate similar violations among other airlines, pushing for broader industry changes. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the department’s dedication to ending poor treatment of disabled travelers, signifying a shift in regulatory enforcement. This alarming situation prompts other airlines to reassess their handling procedures and policies, anticipating heightened scrutiny and potential penalties.
“We are pleased to see DOT making such a strong statement for how it will hold airlines accountable for jeopardizing the well-being of passengers with disabilities, particularly wheelchair and scooter users” – Carl Blake, the CEO of Paralyzed Veterans of America
With the largest penalty of its kind, disability rights advocates view the fine as a critical measure towards ensuring accountability. American Airlines must now adhere to stricter guidelines and standards in assisting disabled passengers or face an additional $25 million penalty. As they invest in critical infrastructure improvements, the airline commits to revolutionizing its services, aiming to achieve equity and safety for its disabled clientele.
Sources
1. American Airlines Fined $50 Million Over Treatment of Disabled Passengers
2. US fines American Airlines $50 million over mishandling of disabled passengers and wheelchairs
