U.S. proposes $7.1 mln fine against AMR

WASHINGTON (Reuters) –

The U.S. government proposed a $7.1

million fine on Thursday against American Airlines, a unit of

AMR Corp (AMR.N), for allegedly deferring maintenance on

safety-related equipment and other problems.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said in a

statement that American was aware that certain repairs were

needed on two MD-83 planes but intentionally operated the

aircraft on dozens of flights in 2007 without first doing the

work.

Separately, the agency cited deficiencies in the carrier’s

drug and alcohol testing programs and violations of inspection

procedures regarding aircraft exit lighting.

American can appeal the fine.

(Reporting by John Crawley; editing by Carol Bishopric)