Delta Air Lines has reached a substantial settlement of $78.75 million to resolve a class action lawsuit arising from a 2020 incident where jet fuel was dumped over populated areas in Southern California. This agreement aims to compensate affected residents and avoid further legal battles.
The event occurred on January 14, 2020, when Delta Flight 89, a Boeing 777 bound for Shanghai from Los Angeles International Airport, experienced a loss of thrust shortly after takeoff. In response to the emergency, the pilots jettisoned approximately 15,000 pounds of jet fuel to reduce the aircraft’s weight for a safe landing. However, the fuel was released at a low altitude over densely populated neighborhoods rather than over the ocean or at higher altitudes where it could dissipate safely.
The fuel dump coated homes, schools, and other properties across Los Angeles and Orange counties, leading to widespread contamination. Dozens of residents reported minor health issues such as skin irritations and respiratory problems, with some seeking medical treatment. The incident caused significant distress and property damage in the affected communities.
Property owners quickly mobilized, filing a class action lawsuit against Delta, accusing the airline of negligence, trespass, and nuisance. They argued that the pilots failed to follow proper procedures for emergency fuel dumps, which typically involve minimizing impact on inhabited areas. The plaintiffs demanded compensation for cleanup costs and damages.
Delta Air Lines consistently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that its pilots acted in accordance with federal regulations and FAA-approved training to ensure the safety of everyone involved. The airline highlighted that an FAA investigation later cleared the pilots of misconduct, supporting their actions during the emergency. Despite this, Delta chose to settle the lawsuit to avoid the uncertainties and expenses of prolonged litigation.
The proposed settlement, filed this week in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, outlines a gross payment of $78.75 million. After deducting legal fees and costs, the net amount is approximately $50.6 million, which will be distributed to an estimated 38,000 property owners or residents. This distribution is based on the extent of damages suffered.
Filippo Marchino, the attorney representing the plaintiffs, described the settlement as fair and reasonable, emphasizing that it provides justice and compensation for the hard-working families affected. He noted that the outcome respects the plaintiffs’ demands for accountability and proper treatment.
With the settlement pending court approval, this resolution brings closure to a contentious chapter for Delta and the impacted communities. It allows the airline to move forward while addressing the grievances of those affected by the 2020 fuel dump incident.