American Airlines sued over baggage handler’s death
The family of an airport worker killed in a tarmac luggage cart accident is suing American Airlines.
Kendrick Hudson died in August at Charlotte International Airport when he was forced to swerve to avoid a piece of dropped luggage on the tarmac.
His baggage truck then rolled over and killed him.
As well as the airline, the city of Charlotte is named as a defendant.
The lawsuit claims poor lighting on the tarmac contributed to the accident.
It said it was ‘so dark in that area that he could not see the dropped piece of luggage in front of him until he was almost on it – too late for him to safely avoid it.’
"American Airlines knew of the inadequate lighting, and the danger it presents to all those working in the area, yet they chose to stick their head in the sand," said Alex Hilliard, a lawyer representing the family.
Hudson was a baggage handler and driver for American subsidiary Piedmont Airlines.
An OSHA health and safety investigation is still ongoing and as yet, ‘no cause has been determined’ the airline said.
"Our condolences are with the family of Mr. Hudson. We are committed to providing a safe work environment for all of our team members," American said in a statement.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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