What's Happening?
A federal jury in San Jose has ruled that American Airlines must pay $9.6 million in damages to Jesus Plasencia and his wife, Ana Maria Marcela Tavantzis, after the airline failed to divert a flight following Plasencia's debilitating stroke. The incident occurred during a flight from Miami to Madrid in November 2021. Plasencia suffered a 'mini stroke' before boarding and a more severe stroke after take-off. Despite the severity of his condition, the flight crew did not notify the pilot or divert the flight, leading to Plasencia's hospitalization in Spain. The jury found American Airlines liable under the Montreal Convention for not adhering to its health and safety protocols.
Why It's Important?
This ruling underscores the importance of airlines adhering to health and safety protocols, especially in medical emergencies. The decision could have significant implications for airline policies and passenger rights, potentially leading to stricter enforcement of medical emergency procedures. The case highlights the legal responsibilities of airlines under international treaties like the Montreal Convention, which governs air travel across countries. The ruling may prompt airlines to review and improve their emergency response protocols to avoid similar liabilities in the future.
What's Next?
American Airlines has expressed disagreement with the jury's verdict and is evaluating its next steps. The airline may consider appealing the decision, which could lead to further legal proceedings. Meanwhile, the case may influence other airlines to reassess their emergency protocols to prevent similar incidents. The ruling could also lead to increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies regarding airline compliance with health and safety standards.
