United Airlines Faces Lawsuit After 737 Technician Fired During Cancer Treatment

A United Airlines technician is fighting back against the carrier in a new federal lawsuit. Hasan Syed, a 737 aircraft controller, alleges he was wrongfully terminated while undergoing chemotherapy for Stage 4 cancer. The lawsuit contends the firing occurred because he was "taking too much time off," a move that allegedly violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Allegations of Workplace Discrimination

Syed was hired by United in April 2024. His role involved troubleshooting issues with the mechanical, electrical, and avionics systems of Boeing 737 aircraft. The complaint, filed in Chicago federal court, states Syed consistently "met or exceeded performance expectations."

In December 2024, Syed began experiencing serious health issues. A subsequent biopsy in early 2025 confirmed a diagnosis of Stage 4 lymphoma. This means the cancer had spread beyond the lymphatic system.

Syed immediately informed his supervisor of the serious diagnosis. He was reportedly told to "focus on getting better."

Despite his medical challenges, Syed continued working his 12-hour shifts. He used his accrued sick leave and vacation time to manage his absences. These breaks were typically a day or two following debilitating chemotherapy treatments. The complaint notes he was performing his job duties to the best of his ability.

Failure to Accommodate

The aviation maintenance worker inquired about a temporary transfer. He sought a less stressful role in United’s Planning Department while undergoing treatment. Management told Syed they would "look into it" and recommend him. However, the lawsuit claims nothing was ever done to facilitate this reasonable accommodation.

According to the lawsuit, the termination occurred in April 2025. Syed received a phone call from his supervisor while he was in the middle of a chemotherapy session. The supervisor allegedly told him, "I’m sorry, but I have to let you go – you’re taking too much time off work."

Legal Claims Under ADA and FMLA

Syed’s United Airlines technician lawsuit is centered on two key federal employment laws. The first is the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA prohibits employers from discriminating against qualified individuals with disabilities. This includes denying reasonable accommodations that do not impose an "undue hardship" on the employer. The complaint argues United’s actions illustrated a willful and/or reckless violation of the ADA.

The second is the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). FMLA provides eligible employees up to 12 workweeks of job-protected leave for serious health conditions. Department of Labor guidelines require an employee to have worked for the employer for at least 12 months. The complaint highlights a critical detail: Syed was fired just seven days before his one-year anniversary. This is when he would have qualified for FMLA protection.

Attorney Chad Eisenback emphasized the core issue. “No one should have to choose between their health and their livelihood,” he stated. The Stage 4 cancer discrimination claim seeks to hold the employer accountable for the termination.

Broader Airline Labor Context

This case is the latest in a series of United Airlines employment lawsuit filings. Other recent lawsuits have alleged workplace issues. These claims include sexual harassment, wrongful accusation of addiction, and unchecked racism. Such legal actions underscore the challenges in airline labor relations.

The FAA sets stringent standards for aviation maintenance worker performance and safety. While the lawsuit does not involve safety, it highlights the human resources side of commercial aviation operations. Maintaining a stable, supported workforce is crucial for all major carriers. This is a key focus for the entire commercial aviation news sector.

• The termination caused Syed significant financial harm and emotional distress.
• Syed is seeking back pay, front pay, liquidated damages, and punitive damages.
• A charge was filed with the Illinois Department of Human Rights in November 2025.
• Syed received a right-to-sue letter from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) on December 29, 2025.

According to the source, a United Airlines spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit. The plaintiff's legal team, Atlas Law Center, stands firmly with Syed. They aim to hold employers accountable for denying basic workplace dignity because of a medical condition or disability. Read more about industry developments in employee rights in aviation and other aviation news on flying.flights.

Syed’s complaint notes his treatment has been successful. A recent PET scan showed the cancer to be in remission.