Airline Ordered to Pay $9.6M to Passenger Who Had Stroke
American Airlines planes parked at Miami International Airport. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier, File)
A federal jury has awarded $9.6 million to a California man who suffered a debilitating stroke on an American Airlines flight after crew members allegedly ignored early warning signs.
Jesus Plasencia, 67, was traveling with his wife on a Miami-to-Madrid flight in 2021 when he began showing symptoms of a mini-stroke, including slurred speech and loss of coordination. According to court filings, his wife repeatedly urged flight attendants to take the situation seriously, but her concerns were dismissed. The pilot reportedly joked with Plasencia before proceeding with takeoff instead of seeking medical help.
Hours later, Plasencia suffered a massive stroke mid-flight. By the time the plane landed in Madrid, his condition had worsened significantly. He spent three weeks in a Spanish hospital before being flown back to California, where he now requires round-the-clock care and cannot walk, speak, or live independently.
Jurors ruled that American Airlines failed to follow its own medical emergency protocols, holding the company liable under the Montreal Convention, which sets international airline standards. The $9.6 million award is expected to cover lifelong care costs and home modifications.
American Airlines said it disagrees with the verdict and is reviewing its legal options.
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