April 10, 2008

American Airlines cancels more than 900 flights Thursday; MD-80 aircraft inspections continue

American Airlines canceled more than 900 flights today (Thursday, April 10) as it worked to complete the inspections of its MD-80 fleet. The airline is also working to re-accommodate customers affected by this week's activity.

Customers who were scheduled on an American Airlines flight that was canceled may request a full refund or apply the value of their ticket toward future travel on American Airlines. Additionally, customers scheduled to travel on any MD-80 flight April 8-11, even if their flight has not been canceled, may rebook without a change fee to any AA flight with availability in the same cabin as long as their travel begins by April 17.

Customers who were inconvenienced with overnight stays should go to AA.com where a link has been established to request information about compensation. Customers also are encouraged to continue to check AA.com or to contact their travel agents for flight status information.

On Wednesday, American officially canceled 1,094 flights, in addition to the 460 canceled on Tuesday.

As of Wednesday afternoon:
- 79 MD-80 aircraft were completely inspected
- 60 of the 179 MD-80s were returned to service
- 119 of the 179 MD-80s were still undergoing work
- 121 MD-80s remain to be inspected

Laurie O'Leary
Sunflower Travel
316-733-2753
316-393-2185-emergency only