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FAA Proposes Fines for American Airlines and Southwest Over Drug and Alcohol Protocol Violations

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The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States has proposed civil penalties against American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, alleging that both carriers violated safety regulations by allowing employees in safety-sensitive positions to operate without completing mandatory follow-up protocols after testing positive for prohibited substances.

American Airlines: Irregularities in Cabin Crew Oversight

The FAA proposed a $255,000 fine against American Airlines this Wednesday after detecting failures in personnel supervision. According to the aviation authority’s report, between May 2019 and December 2023, the airline permitted 12 flight attendants to return to their safety duties without having finalized all legally required follow-up testing.

These employees had previously tested positive during drug and alcohol screenings. Following the notification, American Airlines issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to safety:

“The safety of our customers and team members is paramount. We take drug and alcohol testing very seriously and are collaborating with the FAA to address any issues,” the airline stated.

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Southwest Airlines: Non-Compliance Across Multiple Operational Levels

Meanwhile, the proposed fine against Southwest Airlines amounts to $304,000. In this instance, the FAA alleges the carrier failed to conduct required follow-up testing for 11 employees, including:

The regulator specified that during various periods between August 2021 and July 2024, these workers performed safety-sensitive functions despite having previously tested positive for alcohol or drug consumption.

Southwest’s Response

The company stated that it remains in direct communication with the regulatory body and underscored that it has already implemented structural changes to its control policies.

Next Steps in the Regulatory Process

Both American Airlines and Southwest Airlines have 30 days from the date of notification to formally respond to the FAA’s allegations. This process will determine whether the fines are upheld in full or if a settlement is reached following a review of the corrective measures implemented by each carrier.

Strict compliance with substance follow-up programs is a cornerstone of U.S. aviation regulations, designed to ensure operational integrity and maintain passenger confidence in the national aviation system.

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