American Air Faces Fine Over Batteries

AMR Corp.’s American Airlines faces a $1-million U.S. fine for using a jetliner on 198 flights with potentially faulty batteries for floor lights that guide passengers to emergency exits.

The Federal Aviation Administration proposed the fine against the largest airline after inspections at several American facilities, including the main battery shop, found incorrect or broken chargers being used for the batteries, the agency said. FAA spokesman Paul Turk called the proposed fine “a significant civil penalty.” FAA fines often are less than $100,000.

“Flight safety was never compromised during this period, and American believes the fine is excessive and very much out of proportion for the violations cited,” the airline said. American asked to meet with the FAA to discuss the penalty, which covers flights in August through November 1999.

The Fort Worth-based airline said it implemented a new system for storing, maintaining and auditing batteries since the alleged violations.

AMR rose 56 cents to $34.95 on the Big Board.