United Airlines Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Discrimination in Flight Assignments

Longtime Flight Attendants Sue United Airlines

United Airlines is facing a lawsuit from two longtime flight attendants who claim they were discriminated against in their assignment to work on charter flights for the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team. Dawn Todd and Darby Quezada allege that they were excluded from these coveted assignments due to their racial background and age.

Discrimination Based on Appearance

In their complaint filed with the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Todd and Quezada assert that they were passed over in favor of flight attendants who fit a specific physical appearance. They claim that the preferred candidates were “white, young, thin women who are predominantly blond and blue-eyed,” which met the preference of the Dodgers players.

Seeking Justice and Damages

Todd, who is Black, and Quezada, who is of Mexican, Black, and Jewish descent, have both been employed by United Airlines for over 15 years. They are seeking unspecified damages for the alleged discrimination and harassment they experienced. United Airlines has responded, stating that they foster an inclusive environment and will vigorously defend themselves against the lawsuit.

Impact on Careers and Well-being

The lawsuit highlights the consequences of the alleged discrimination on Todd and Quezada’s careers and well-being. They claim that being excluded from the highly lucrative Dodgers charter flight program resulted in financial losses and severe emotional distress. Both flight attendants have experienced panic attacks, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and a loss of self-esteem, requiring psychological treatment.

Retaliation and Hostile Work Environment

Todd and Quezada also allege that United Airlines retaliated against them after they voiced their concerns about being bypassed for assignments. They claim that employees and managers referred to Todd as the “flight’s maid” and demeaned her during flights and meetings. Such behavior further contributed to the hostile work environment they experienced.

Previous Lawsuit and Changing Circumstances

The flight attendants note that they had previously been selected for the Dodgers charter flight program. However, they state that the situation changed when United Airlines faced a similar lawsuit in 2020 regarding the staffing of athletic teams’ flights. They assert that the addition of white flight attendants to the program resulted in Todd receiving fewer assignments and Quezada being completely removed from the program.

Legal Proceedings and Damages

The lawsuit, titled Quezada et al v United Airlines Inc et al, was filed in the California Superior Court of Los Angeles County. Todd and Quezada are seeking compensation for the financial and emotional damages they have suffered as a result of the alleged discrimination and harassment.

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