united airlines reached an amicable settlement with David Dao, the passenger who was forcibly removed from its flight a few weeks ago. The airline received worldwide criticism ignited by that incident. Under the terms of the agreement, the exact amount of the settlement will remain undisclosed.
Smooth settlement between Dao and United
Thomas Demetrio, Dao’s lawyer, was quite pleased with the airlines, saying that it should be applauded for accepting corporate accountability in the matter. He also praised Oscar Munoz, CEO of United, for handling the case without blaming others.
Demetrio said in a statement, “Mr. Munoz said he was going to do the right thing, and he has,” according to a report by USA Today. The settlement also indicated that four Chicago Department of Aviation Security officers are free from any lawsuits, although they remain suspended pending an investigation of the incident.
The changes to its policies
On the day the settlement was reached, United Airlines also announced its changes to its policies to improve their service and to prevent the same incident from happening again.
Here are the ten changes the United Airlines made according to its “Review and Action Report” of the company’s Flight 3411.
- Law enforcement will only be used for safety and security issues.
- Customers who are already seated on the plane need not give up their seat involuntarily unless there is a risk in safety and security.
- Customer compensation incentives for voluntary denied boarding is increased to $10,000.
- Crews are booked onto a flight at least one hour before departure.
- Employees will be given additional annual training.
- Will create an automated system for soliciting volunteers to change travel plans.
- Will eliminate the red tape on lost pieces of luggage.
Dao was forcibly removed from the plane at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport after he refused to do so after United needed to make room for four crew members on the fully booked flight.
The incident was captured on video and posted on social media. The scene sparked a worldwide outrage among netizens.
What do you think of the settlement between the United Airlines and David Dao? Do you think that these changes are enough to prevent the same incident from happening again?
What changes do you think the Airline needs to make?Write and share your comments down below and don’t forget to like and share this article.
