Atlanta, GA – A lawsuit has been filed against Delta Air Lines by the family of Luis Aldarondo Jr., a man who lost his life at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport last summer. The family alleges negligence on the part of Delta contributed to hazardous workplace conditions that ultimately led to Aldarondo’s death.
According to court documents, the incident occurred on August 27, 2024, when Aldarondo was working in the airline’s Wheel & Brake Shop. His partner, Sonia Y. Cruz, who is also the administratrix of his estate, filed the wrongful death lawsuit in Gwinnett County State Court on March 28, advocating on behalf of their minor children.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) conducted an investigation following the incident. Findings concluded that certain actions, or lack thereof, by Delta Air Lines contributed to the hazardous environment that led to Aldarondo’s untimely death. The lawsuit highlights a failure in the airline’s duty to maintain a safe working environment, particularly criticizing the absence of essential safety mechanisms such as hydraulic clamps or safety cages which are crucial when handling pressurized multi-piece aircraft rims.
Further grievances articulated in the complaint accuse Delta of negligence in the hiring, training, and supervising of personnel, particularly pointing to two unnamed employees referred to as John Does 1-2, who are believed to have been directly involved in the incident.
In response to the lawsuit, Delta spokesperson Samantha Moore Facteau stated, “At Delta, nothing is more important than safety.” She elaborated that the airline conducted a comprehensive investigation subsequent to the incident and has already begun implementing corrective actions that align with OSHA’s recommendations.
The legal battle is multifaceted, with Cruz not only seeking compensatory damages reflecting the “full value of the life” of Aldarondo but also compensation for funeral expenses, pre-death pain and suffering, and punitive damages aimed at acknowledging and rectifying the severe negligence alleged. Additionally, the lawsuit requests attorney’s fees, accusing Delta of bad faith and unnecessary prolongation of litigation.
A key aspect of the lawsuit is its demand for a jury trial, indicating a push from the family for a transparent and public examination of the facts surrounding Aldarondo’s death. This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding workplace safety and the responsibilities of employers in high-risk environments.
The tragic event and subsequent legal proceedings underscore a critical dialogue about occupational safety in aviation maintenance and handling, sectors known for their high-stakes environments. As the legal process unfolds, it will likely prompt further examination of industry standards and safety practices, not just at Delta but across the aviation industry.
This wrongful death lawsuit touches on the broader implications for corporate accountability and the measures companies must take to protect their workers. The outcomes of this case could influence future policies and safety measures within the aviation sector to prevent such incidents from occurring.