FAA Proposes a 2.475 Million Penalty Against American Eagle, a Sister Carrier of American Airlines
The Federal Aviation Administration announced on Monday, February 1, 2010 that they are proposing a 2.475 million dollar penalty against a sister carrier of American Airlines for not making sure flight crews had accurate information about the weight of baggage on dozens of flights. Incorrect takeoff flights are considered safety hazards if pilots rely on faulty information when determining the right speed for takeoff and landing. The FAA charged that Eagle operated at least 39 flights after being told of the problem. The FAA noted that between January and October 2008 American Eagle operated at least 154 flights in which baggage weight listed on the cargo records differed from data entered into an automated system for tracking and balancing weight. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood stated, “The traveling public has to be confident that airlines are following important safety rules.”
The aircraft accident lawyers at Reiff & Bily understand that the weight and balance of cargo is considered a significant issue for the smaller jets typically operated by Eagle and other regional carriers.
