Flight Attendant Sues United Over Disability Discrimination in Crohn's Case
A United Airlines flight attendant, suffering from Crohn's disease, has filed a lawsuit against the company. She alleges disability discrimination, retaliation, and failure to provide reasonable accommodations. The central issue is whether 'dependability' is an essential function of a flight attendant's job and if United could have offered accommodations.
The flight attendant, who had accumulated over 25 attendance points by November 2020, triggered a Level 4 warning. Under United's policy, flight attendants face termination after accruing 30 or more points for tardiness or sick leave. A 2025 US study found that Crohn's disease sufferers have notably higher work absenteeism compared to the general population. The flight attendant claims United should have offered intermittent medical leave as a reasonable accommodation.
United argues that the flight attendant was not qualified for the job due to her absences related to Crohn's disease flare-ups. The company maintains it made a 'good faith effort' to assist her but could not reasonably accommodate her. A federal judge has ruled that the case can proceed to trial, allowing all three claims.
The lawsuit raises important questions about the balance between workplace demands and reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. The trial will determine whether United could have done more to support the flight attendant and if her termination was discriminatory.
