Family Sues United Airlines After Nightmare Near-Crash Ruins Their Vacation
In a harrowing incident that has led to legal action, the Maltz family of California is suing United Airlines following a near-catastrophic event aboard Flight 1722. The lawsuit, filed on April 24, 2024, in Chicago federal court, alleges that the airline’s negligence nearly resulted in the deaths of eleven family members spanning three generations.
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The Incident: A Vacation Turned Nightmare
On December 18, 2022, the Maltz family embarked on United Airlines Flight 1722 from Maui’s Kahului Airport, destined for San Francisco International Airport. Shortly after takeoff, a miscommunication between the captain and first officer regarding the aircraft’s flap settings led to a sudden and severe loss of altitude. The Boeing 777 plunged towards the Pacific Ocean, descending at a rate of -8,536 feet per minute, before the pilots managed to regain control merely 748 feet above the water’s surface. Passengers were subjected to extreme G-forces, with many screaming and praying, fearing for their lives.
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Legal Allegations: Claims of Negligence and Emotional Distress
The Maltz family’s lawsuit accuses United Airlines and its flight crew of negligence, asserting that the pilots’ failure to properly communicate and manage the aircraft’s settings directly led to the perilous dive. The family claims to have suffered significant emotional distress, including terror, mental anguish, anxiety, and a newfound fear of flying. They are seeking damages for these psychological injuries, emphasizing the trauma of nearly losing their entire family in a single incident.
Broader Implications: Airline Safety and Accountability
This lawsuit underscores ongoing concerns about airline safety and the critical importance of pilot training and communication. The incident with United Airlines is particularly alarming as it resulted from human error on a major U.S. carrier during a routine flight. Attorney Curt Miner, representing the Maltz family, highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that such pilot errors are not what the American flying public expects when traveling domestically.
Comparative Cases: Legal Actions in Aviation Incidents
The Maltz family’s legal action is not an isolated case. In a similar vein, a North Carolina family sued American Airlines after a turbulent and aborted landing in 2019 led to injuries and the cancellation of much of their planned vacation. The lawsuit alleged negligence by the airline and sought damages for pain and suffering.
Moreover, in a notable verdict, a jury awarded $116 million to the family of Trevor Cadigan, one of five passengers killed in a no-door helicopter crash into New York City’s East River in March 2018. The jury attributed fault to multiple parties, including the flight organizer, the helicopter owner, and the manufacturer of a malfunctioning flotation device.
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United Airlines’ Response and Industry Reactions
As of now, United Airlines has not provided a detailed public response to the lawsuit. A brief statement from the airline indicated that they had nothing to share regarding the incident. This lack of communication has drawn criticism from industry observers and passengers alike, who demand transparency and accountability from airlines, especially in matters concerning passenger safety.
The Daily Beast
Conclusion: Seeking Justice and Ensuring Safety
The Maltz family’s lawsuit against United Airlines highlights the profound impact that aviation incidents can have on passengers and their families. Beyond seeking compensation for their traumatic experience, the family aims to shed light on the importance of stringent safety protocols and effective communication within the airline industry. As this case progresses, it may prompt broader discussions and potential reforms aimed at enhancing passenger safety and preventing similar incidents in the future.
