Four American Airlines flight attendants who said the new uniforms AA issued in 2016 made them sick have won a California jury ruling that awards them more than $1 million from the company that made the uniforms.
The verdict could be a signal for more lawsuits; lawyers representing the four, who filed suit in 2017, say they know of another 400 FAs who are making the same claims. When the uniforms were issued, the first new design in years, FAs soon complained of sore and swollen eyes, breathing difficulties and other symptoms.
The jury, whose verdict must still be confirmed by the judge, found that Twin Hill Acquisition Company’s uniforms were a “substantial factor in causing harm” but was not negligent in its design of the garments. The company has asked the judge to reduce the judgement, and will have to decide whether to fight other cases or try to settle with the remaining FAs.
In their lawsuit, the flight attendants claimed that their uniforms contained traces of formaldehyde, toluene and other toxic chemicals linked to health problems. Resins containing formaldehyde have been used in fabric for years to keep clothes wrinkle-free and make them last longer.
AA was not a defendant in the case. American gave flight attendants the option of wearing their old uniforms, or even picking out an outfit at Macy’s or JCPenney, and eventually ordered new uniforms supplied by Land’s End.
