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American Airlines hit with largest fine ever over maintenance
Federal regulators hit American Airlines with the industry's largest fine ever, saying the Fort Worth-based carrier failed to properly inspect and repair wires in the wheel wells of its MD-80 fleet in 2008.
The FAA's proposed $24.2 million civil penalty is related to the April 2008 grounding of about 300 American planes, a move that led to 3,000 canceled flights in one week.
"We expect operators to perform inspections and conduct regular and required maintenance in order to prevent safety issues," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "There can be no compromises when it comes to safety."
American said it believes that the proposed fine is "unwarranted" and plans to challenge it.
"American Airlines has always maintained its aircraft to the highest standards, and we continue to do so," said American spokeswoman Andrea Huguely. "We assure our customers there was never a safety of flight issue surrounding these circumstances more than two years ago."