A New York couple has filed a lawsuit against American Airlines for putting their son at risk. . Their four-year old son has a severe nut allergy, which they claim they made clear to American when making their reservation and then told by a gate agent that there would be no nuts served on the plane.
However, on their flight from JFK to LAX, they claim that not only were the flight attendants loud, sarcastic and belittling, but they sold warm nuts to passengers in the cabin. American does have a peanut policy, as noted below.
American recognizes that some passengers are allergic to peanuts. Although we do not serve peanuts, we do serve other nut products and there may be trace elements of unspecified peanut ingredients, including peanut oils, in meal and snacks. We make no provisions to be peanut-free. Additionally, other customers may bring peanuts on board. Therefore, we cannot guarantee customers will not be exposed to peanuts during flight and strongly encourage customers to take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure.
Essentially, they are avoiding issues of allergies to nuts they do serve. If an airline is selling warm nuts to people on a transcontinental flight, they should be aware they could suffer a medical emergency(which, if forces a diversion, will cost them more money than their nut profit.) Airlines that serve peanuts often will make announcements and put up signs. Which is not guaranteeing a peanut-free flight, merely ensuring a safe environment for the poor allergic passenger.
The passengers did not expect American to give them a guarantee. Nothing is guaranteed. And passengers can bring their own substances on board. But some arrangement could be made. At the very least a kind and understanding flight attendant.
The parents have announced the proceeds from the lawsuit will be donated to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network.