Airlines

American Airlines to pay $7.5M in class action settlement over bag fees

American Airlines to pay at least $7.5 million to settle a lawsuit alleging that it overcharged passengers for checked bags.

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An agreement was reached last week that requires American Airlines to pay at least $7.5 million to settle a lawsuit alleging that it overcharged passengers for checked bags.

In accordance with the settlement agreement, American would deposit a minimum of $7.5 million into a settlement account, according to a court document made on October 14 by the plaintiffs’ lawyers. All passengers who were mistakenly charged a baggage fee within the predetermined dates would be entitled to a refund. According to the petition, Americans would be compelled to pay the whole sum if claims exceeded $7.5 million, “completely refunding at-issue luggage fees for all legitimate claimants.”

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Before the case went to trial, attorneys reached a preliminary agreement. Last week, the settlement was brought to Judge Reed O’Connor, who has approved the agreement before it can be finalized. Holders of co-branded American credit cards and members of the AAdvantage loyalty program with elite status filed the lawsuit, claiming they were charged baggage fees despite being excluded from them according to the carrier’s rules.

On domestic and short-haul international flights, American normally charges $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second checked bag. In 2018, those charges were raised from $25 to $35. A minimum of one complimentary checked bag is, however, available to AAdvantage members with an elite level. Furthermore, cardholders of several co-branded American credit cards receive complimentary checked luggage.

The settlement fund’s administrators are still determining how to compensate passengers, but individuals who may be impacted should be informed.

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Airlines

Air India to Launch aircraft maintenance training institute in Bengaluru

Air India, one of India’s leading global airlines, is set to establish a Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) in Bengaluru.

This institute will offer a comprehensive Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The program will follow an integrated 2+2 year structure, combining classroom learning with practical, hands-on training.

This initiative is part of Air India’s broader goal of creating a robust aviation ecosystem in India. With plans to expand its fleet and strengthen its operations, the airline aims to build a skilled workforce of maintenance engineers, making the organization self-reliant while supporting its ambitious transformation journey.

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To bring this vision to life, air india has partnered with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), a subsidiary of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). Together, they will develop a state-of-the-art facility spanning 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City.

This purpose-built campus will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and qualified trainers to deliver world-class education and training. The institute is expected to become operational by mid-2026.

The BMTO will be located close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, also set to open in Bengaluru by early 2026. The AME program will begin with two years of academic coursework, followed by two years of practical training at the MRO, ensuring students receive hands-on experience adhering to industry standards.

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In the meantime, Air India has introduced a Cadet AME program in collaboration with reputable institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

This ensures continuity in its commitment to developing skilled aircraft maintenance engineers while the BMTO facility is under construction. The program also allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree through university partnerships, enhancing their career and academic opportunities.

With this initiative, air india plane aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in aircraft maintenance and engineering, air india new planes contributing to the development of India’s aviation sector and creating specialized career paths for aspiring engineers.