FAA proposes $255,000 fine against American Airlines over alleged drug and alcohol violations

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed a civil penalty of $255,000 against American Airlines for allegedly breaching federal drug and alcohol testing regulations.

According to the FAA, the airline allowed 12 flight attendants who had previously tested positive for prohibited substances to return to safety-sensitive duties without completing all mandatory follow-up testing.

The regulator claims the violations took place between May 2019 and December 2023, covering a range of substances including alcohol, amphetamines, cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine.

Under FAA regulations, employees performing safety-critical roles—such as flight attendants—must undergo a strict return-to-duty process after a positive test. This includes evaluation by a substance abuse professional and completion of a comprehensive follow-up testing programme before resuming duties.

The FAA alleges that American Airlines did not fully comply with these requirements in the cases identified.

American Airlines has 30 days from receipt of the FAA’s enforcement letter to respond to the allegations. The airline may choose to provide additional information, contest the findings, or seek a settlement with the regulator.