FAA hits American Airlines 'with the largest fine in history

By Ben Mutzabaugh, USA TODAY


In a story just in, USA TODAY's Alan Levin writes:

Federal aviation regulators hit American Airlines on Thursday with the largest fine in history, charging that the carrier made thousands of flights on jets with wiring prone to dangerous sparking.

The Federal Aviation Administration intends to fine American $24.2 million, which far exceeds the previous largest penalty. The airline flew 14,278 times on its fleet of MD-80 jets without making required upgrades to wiring, the agency charged.

"We put rules and regulations in place to keep the flying public safe," Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. "We expect operators to perform inspections and conduct regular and required maintenance in order to prevent safety issues. There can be no compromises when it comes to safety."

American issued a statement insisting that safety was never compromised on any of its flights and vowing to contest the fine.

 

We all knew this was coming for some time. Ouch.

 

$24.2 million, which far exceeds the previous largest penalty. The airline flew 14,278 times


or about $1,700 per "time"

 

If I remember correctly, this is about the unsuccessful completion of an D on wire bundles in the wheel well. The AD was complied with correctly, with the exception of the location of the zip ties, they were 1/4 in further apart then called for. This is a bunk fine. Who did AA PI$$ off in the administration?

 

Times are hard...FAA is out to fund raise. They are doing the same thing where I work.

 

Well yea those parties they throw aren't cheap...

This fine is BS. Sometimes a little common sense would go a long ways.