Two pilots seek reinstatement because they had HIV, not AIDS

AIDS Policy Law. 1995 May 5;10(8):5-6.

Abstract

AIDS: Two pilots, Capts. [Name removed] and [name removed], have sued United Airlines on charges that they were unlawfully grounded because of their HIV disease. The pilots were ordered on medical retirement after [name removed] officials learned they are HIV-positive. The pilots denied claims by the airline that their disease had progressed to AIDS and that they were taking antiviral medicines that could affect their ability to fly. The distinction between a diagnosis of AIDS and a diagnosis of HIV could be the key to the case. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires all pilots to obtain a medical certification--a diagnosis of AIDS would be considered justification for denial of an FAA medical permit. Both pilots say they passed medical exams administered by [name removed] and the FAA. Separate suits filed by [name removed] and [name removed] each contain similar allegations. In addition to stating Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) claims, the suit also alleges violation of California's Fair Employment and Housing Act, and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), for [name removed]'s alleged foot-dragging on extending health benefits to the pilots. The suit also alleges negligence, defamation and invasion of privacy.

Publication types

  • Newspaper Article

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Aerospace Medicine / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Confidentiality / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Disability Evaluation
  • Employment / legislation & jurisprudence
  • HIV Seropositivity / diagnosis*
  • HIV Seropositivity / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • United States