Judge Rules in Favor of United Airlines

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit against United Airlines that accused the airline of making misleading claims regarding its environmental practices. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis ruled on August 13 that the allegations, which included violations of the Maryland Consumer Protection Act, are preempted by the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978. This act prohibits states from enforcing laws related to the pricing, routes, or services of air carriers, effectively shielding airlines from certain consumer protection claims. The lawsuit, brought by plaintiff Zajac, argued that United's characterization of its fuel as sustainable was misleading, as it suggested environmental benefits that the fuel does not provide. Zajac highlighted that out of the 4 billion gallons of fuel used annually by United, only 1 million gallons are derived from biofuels. He sought to have his complaint certified as a class action, asserting that the misleading marketing practices warranted legal action. In response, United Airlines requested the dismissal of the case, citing the Airline Deregulation Act as a barrier to such claims. The airline's motion referenced previous Supreme Court rulings that affirmed the preemption of fraud and consumer protection claims related to airline marketing practices. Zajac contended that some courts have allowed certain claims to proceed, arguing that not all consumer protection laws are preempted by the act. Ultimately, Judge Xinis sided with United, stating that the broad preemption provisions of the Deregulation Act left no room for Zajac to amend his claims. The judge dismissed the lawsuit with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled in the future.