AirTran must reinstate pilot who reported problems
Jan 17, 2012, 4:48 PM
Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has ordered AirTran Airways to reinstate a former pilot who was fired after reporting mechanical problems.
OSHA officials say the airline violated whistleblower protection laws when it terminated the pilot after a sudden spike in the number of his reports detailing mechanical failures.
The agency also is requiring the airline to pay more than $1 million to the pilot in back wages, plus interest and compensatory damages.
A company spokeswoman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
AirTran is a subsidiary of Dallas-based Southwest Airlines Co.
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