American Airlines Fined $4.1M in 2025 for Stranding Passengers Over 3 Hours on Runway
In 2025, American Airlines was fined $4.1 million by the U.S. Department of Transportation for multiple violations of tarmac delay rules, impacting thousands of passengers.
In a landmark enforcement action, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) imposed a $4.1 million fine on American Airlines (AAL) for repeatedly violating tarmac delay regulations by keeping passengers stranded on planes for over three hours.
Between 2018 and 2021, the DOT's investigation revealed that American Airlines held 43 domestic flights on the tarmac for extended periods, affecting 5,821 passengers. This fine represents the largest penalty ever issued under the Tarmac Delay Rule.
Highlights:
- American Airlines fined $4.1 million for extensive tarmac delay violations.
- 43 flights delayed beyond permitted limits, mainly at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.
- Passengers were sometimes denied essential services such as food and water during delays.
- $2.05 million of the fine will be allocated to compensate affected travelers.
The Biden-Harris administration has intensified efforts to protect air travelers, introducing new DOT procedures this year to ensure compensation for meal expenses, hotel stays, and rebooking when airlines cause delays. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has also advocated for fee-free family seating to eliminate extra charges for parents traveling with children.
"This action underscores our commitment to enforcing passenger rights," said Secretary Buttigieg regarding the fine against American Airlines.
Following the announcement, American Airlines' stock rose by 1.2% and has gained approximately 16% year-to-date.
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