Overview

• Court filings place the settlement at $78.75 million, with an estimated $50.6 million net fund for distribution to owners or residents of about 38,000 properties in Los Angeles and Orange counties.
• Preliminary approval has been reported, and a final approval hearing is scheduled for March 2, 2026, with Verita Global, LLC designated to administer claims and payments.
• The case stems from a January 14, 2020 emergency return to LAX in which fuel was released at low altitude over neighborhoods and schools, leading to dozens of people being treated for minor irritation.
• Delta denies liability, says its crew followed FAA‑approved procedures, and cites an FAA investigation that it says cleared the pilots of wrongdoing, while plaintiffs alleged trespass, nuisance, and negligence.
• The agreement includes cooperation to recreate and test residue from the incident and to provide property owners with certificates confirming their properties are clear, and at least one separate suit over people harmed remains pending.