CHICAGO- United Airlines (UA) faces a lawsuit from an FAA inspector who claims the airline retaliated after he reported safety concerns during a 2022 flight from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).
The case centers on alleged punishment following safety reporting, raising questions about how airlines handle passenger safety complaints and regulatory oversight.
FAA Inspector Sues United Airlines
FAA aviation safety inspector Paul Asmus filed a lawsuit accusing United Airlines of retaliation, defamation, and interference with his employment after an onboard incident in May 2022.
According to court filings, Asmus was traveling off duty when he noticed a torn seatback pocket at his assigned seat. He argued that the damage could prevent proper storage and access to the mandatory safety briefing card, potentially violating FAA safety requirements.
He also photographed a passenger standing in the aisle during pushback, an action prohibited during aircraft movement.
Crew members allegedly accused him of photographing staff and being disruptive. The aircraft captain reportedly demanded to see the images, and although Asmus complied, the aircraft returned to the gate, where he was removed from the flight.
According to PYOK, the inspector claims United then portrayed him as a disruptive passenger seeking compensation rather than as someone raising safety concerns.
Airline Action and Financial Demand
Following the incident, United allegedly imposed a lifetime travel ban on Asmus and demanded $3,153 in restitution for costs associated with returning the aircraft to the gate.
The airline also filed a complaint with the FAA, which triggered civil enforcement proceedings against him. During this period, Asmus was removed from his oversight responsibilities involving United Airlines, including investigations connected to the carrier’s Boeing 737 MAX operations.
Asmus claims this removal was part of a broader attempt to sideline him from safety oversight duties involving the airline.
Enforcement Case Dismissed by Judge
In June last year, a Department of Transportation administrative law judge dismissed the enforcement action against Asmus.
The judge ruled that the testimony supporting the airline’s claims was unreliable. The FAA later declined to appeal, making the ruling final.
The court also warned that penalizing passengers or inspectors for reporting safety concerns could discourage reporting and negatively affect aviation safety.
Ongoing Lawsuit and Damages Sought
Despite the dismissal, United reportedly maintained its lifetime ban against Asmus. After attempts to have the restriction lifted failed, he filed a civil lawsuit seeking $12.75 million in damages.
The claim includes $10 million in punitive damages, $2.5 million in general damages, and $250,000 in economic damages. He has requested a jury trial.
United Airlines has not publicly responded to the lawsuit, and all allegations remain unproven pending court proceedings.
Broader Impact on Safety Reporting
The dispute highlights a larger concern within aviation safety: whether passengers and regulators feel safe reporting hazards without fear of retaliation.
Legal findings in the enforcement case emphasized that discouraging safety reporting could undermine passenger protection and operational safety standards.
The lawsuit outcome could influence how airlines and regulators handle future onboard safety complaints and investigations.
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