American Airlines penalized $7.1 million for safety issues

American Airlines penalized $7.1 million for safety issues The Federal Aviation Administration on Thursday slapped American Airlines with fines totaling $7.1 million for improperly deferring maintenance on safety-related equipment, and problems with its drug and alcohol testing programs, and exit lighting inspections.
   Several civil penalties relate to instances last December involving several of the Dallas-based carrier’s MD-83 aircraft. In one instance American returned two planes to service after pilot complaints without replacing certain parts as required by aviation regulations. American also flew several times after improperly deferring maintenance on an autopilot system, and in another case ignored a glitch with an autopilot system.
   “The FAA believes the large total amount of the fine for these violations is appropriate because American Airlines was aware that appropriate repairs were needed, and instead deferred maintenance. In intentionally continuing to fly the aircraft, the carrier did not follow important safety regulations intended to protect passengers and crew,” the agency said.
   American can still appeal the fines.