American Airlines has been fined a record US$4.1 million (about C$5.5 million) for dozens of delayed domestic flights as passengers were forced to stay on board.
The US Department of Transportation said in a press release Monday that this is the “largest fine ever” against an airline for the extended delay as the plane was left on the runway.
The investigation found that between 2018 and 2021, the airline grounded 43 domestic flights for extended periods of time, “without giving passengers the option to disembark”.
On one of these flights, the passengers were not even allowed food or water, the statement said.
Most of the delays occurred at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and affected a total of 5,821 passengers.
“This is the latest action in our ongoing efforts to support the rights of air travelers,” said US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Whether it’s severe tarmac delays or problems getting refunds, the department will continue to protect consumers and hold airlines accountable.”
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