Delta Airlines Passenger Sues for $1 Million After Injury in Flight: Montreal Convention and Its Limitations Explained

A Delta Air Lines passenger, Joseph Hippensteel, is suing the carrier for $1 million after allegedly breaking a rib when an armrest collapsed during a flight from San Diego to Seattle in 2022. While in an aisle seat, he leaned on the armrest while buckling his seatbelt, causing it to collapse and him to fall into the aisle. Despite attempts by two repairmen, the armrest could not be fixed and the plane took off without it functioning properly.

The lawsuit mentions the Montreal Convention, which holds airlines responsible for passenger injuries during international travel unless the airline can prove negligence on the part of the passenger. The Montreal Convention sets a limit of around $170,000 for compensation but the suit is seeking $1 million in total due to alleged negligence on the part of Delta Air Lines. The airline has not yet responded to requests for comment on this matter.

This incident is one of many where the Montreal Convention has been referenced in cases of passenger injuries such as a previous incident where a 6-year-old was burned by a hot meal on a United Airlines flight. This case highlights the importance of ensuring that all parts of an aircraft are properly maintained and functioning before taking off with passengers aboard.