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United Fires Cancer Patient Days Before FMLA
15 Jan
Summary
- United technician fired during chemotherapy for taking time off.
- Employee claims termination violated the Americans with Disabilities Act.
- Firing occurred one week before qualifying for federal medical leave.
A United Airlines aircraft technician, Hasan Syed, has filed a federal lawsuit against the carrier, alleging wrongful termination. Syed, who was diagnosed with Stage 4 lymphoma, claims he was fired in April 2025 while undergoing chemotherapy. His supervisor reportedly cited "taking too much time off" as the reason for termination.
Syed contends that he had used accrued sick and vacation time to manage his absences due to treatment. The lawsuit asserts that United's actions violated the Americans with Disabilities Act, particularly as the termination occurred only seven days before Syed would have qualified for job protection under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
Further complicating matters, Syed had not yet reached the seniority required for his union to contest the dismissal. He is seeking damages for lost income, emotional distress, and other hardships. Separately, Syed has sued Monsanto, blaming their herbicide Roundup for his cancer.
