Delta Fined Under Air Carrier Act
Since March, the Department of Transportation has fined more than10 airline companies under the Air Carrier Access Act. The latest to face a penalty is Delta Air Lines, which agreed to pay $1.35 million for not adequately helping wheelchair-using passengers. This is the largest fine so far for violations of the Air Carrier Act. Previously the largest penalty was a $1.2 million fine against American Airlines.

The DOT alleged that Delta stranded wheelchair users on planes for long periods of time, was slow to help passengers and failed to provide wheelchairs in some cases. Although Delta agreed to the settlement, the company does not admit violations of the law.

Under the terms of the deal it struck with DOT, Delta will only have to pay $100,000 to the government if it reduces complaints and spends a minimum of $1.25 million to improve services. DOT regularly reduces penalties if the company in question sets aside adequate funds to bring its access up to standard. Delta has agreed to spend more than it was fined on training programs and a new managerial position to monitor compliance.