A Look Back At The Incident

United Airlines Passenger Dragged Off Plane, Two Years Later

A Look Back at the Incident

On April 9, 2017, the world witnessed a shocking incident on a United Airlines flight. An unidentified man refused to be bumped from the plane, leading to a violent altercation with security officers. The man was forcibly removed from his seat, dragged through the aisle, and left bloodied and injured.

The Aftermath and Lawsuits

The incident sparked widespread outrage and legal action. The man, David Dao, filed a lawsuit against United Airlines, alleging assault, battery, and emotional distress. He eventually settled with the airline for an undisclosed amount. Several other lawsuits were also filed by passengers who witnessed the incident.

The Investigation and Policy Changes

The Department of Transportation launched an investigation into the incident, which resulted in a $1.4 million fine for United Airlines. The airline also announced a series of policy changes, including limiting the use of involuntary bumping and providing compensation to passengers who are bumped.

Involuntary Bumping

Involuntary bumping is a common problem on overbooked flights. In 2015 alone, over 46,000 customers were involuntarily removed from flights. United Airlines and other airlines have policies that allow them to bump passengers from flights due to overbooking, operational issues, or safety concerns.

Compensation for Bumped Passengers

Airlines are required to provide compensation to passengers who are involuntarily bumped. The amount of compensation varies depending on the fare and the length of the delay. United Airlines' policy provides for compensation ranging from $250 to $1,500.

Conclusion

The incident on United Airlines Flight 3411 was a tragic and preventable event. The airline's actions violated passenger rights and caused serious injuries. The incident led to policy changes and legal action, but it also highlighted the need for greater protections for air travelers.