Class Action over Biased FAA Hiring Practices Is Cleared for Takeoff

A class action lawsuit against the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been allowed to proceed, addressing allegations of race-based discrimination in hiring practices for Air Traffic Controller positions. The case, Brigida v. Buttigieg, was initiated by plaintiffs Andrew Brigida and Matthew Douglas-Cook, who claim they were unfairly passed over for jobs despite being well-qualified, as the FAA allegedly favored less qualified candidates based on race. The court rejected the FAA's attempt to dismiss the case, stating that the allegations reflect violations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination. The FAA's argument that the plaintiffs were not considered "applicants" until they submitted formal applications was dismissed by the court, which recognized the multi-step nature of the application process. The ruling allows for class certification and further discovery, moving the plaintiffs closer to seeking justice. Brigida expressed hope that the ruling would help hold the FAA accountable for prioritizing race over qualifications, emphasizing the need for fairness in the hiring process.

- A class action lawsuit against the FAA for race-based hiring discrimination has been cleared to proceed.

- The court found that the FAA's practices may violate Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

- Plaintiffs argue they were qualified but overlooked due to a racially biased hiring policy.

- The ruling allows for class certification and further examination of the case.

- The decision is seen as a step towards accountability for the FAA's hiring practices.