American Airlines fined $50m for failing to assist passengers with disabilities

American Airlines has been fined $50m by the U.S. Transportation Department for mistreating passengers with disabilities from 2019 to 2023. The investigation found the airline provided unsafe and undignified wheelchair assistance, resulting in injuries and damaged equipment. This is the largest-ever fine issued to an airline for violating disability protections. While American Airlines has invested $175m this year to improve accessibility and reduce wheelchair mishandling by 20%, the penalty highlights ongoing concerns about treatment of disabled passengers. Half of the fine will go towards further investment in accessibility infrastructure, while similar investigations at other airlines continue.