Whistleblowers exist to shine the light of day on topics that others hoped would fade into the background. Because confirming stories that others deny often makes them unpopular with their employer, laws exist to deter retaliation against them. Nonetheless, whistleblowers are often the recipients of job terminations, demotions, suspensions, discrimination, harassment, and denial-of-benefits promotions.
Labor Department Rules for Delta Pilot, Against Airline
Key Takeaways:
- Delta Air Lines first officer Karlene Petitt reported pilot fatigue and safety issues, after which the airline sent her to a psychiatrist who wrongly diagnosed her with bipolar disorder, leading to her removal from flying status for over 1.5 years.
- The U.S. Department of Labor ruled in Petitt's favor, finding Delta engaged in an adverse employment action with discriminatory intent and ordering the airline to pay her $500,000 and return her to flying status.
- The tribunal highlighted the need to deter retaliatory acts, noting the questionable nature of the initial psychiatric diagnosis and the fact that current FAA Administrator Steve Dickson, then a Delta executive, was aware of and approved punitive moves against Petitt.
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