Delayed flights: Record fine for American Airlines

American Airlines has been fined a record US$4.1 million (about CA5.5 million) for delaying dozens of domestic flights where passengers were forced to stay on board.

In a press release on Monday, the US Department of Transportation said it was the “largest fine ever” on an airline for an excessive delay where a flight was left on the tarmac.

The investigation found that between 2018 and 2021, the airline grounded 43 domestic flights for long periods of time “without providing passengers with the opportunity to disembark”.

On one of these flights, passengers were not even allowed food or water, the statement read.

The most delays occurred at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and affected a total of 5,821 passengers.

“This is the latest step in our ongoing effort to uphold the rights of air travelers,” said US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Whether it’s inordinate tarmac delays or issues with refunds, the department will continue to protect consumers and hold airlines accountable.”