Voice of America, 10 April 2008

American Airlines has grounded nearly 2,500 flights for safety inspections, leaving about 100,000 air travelers stranded across the United States.

The U.S. carrier grounded more than 900 flights Thursday -- the third straight day of cancellations. The measures have caused chaos at airports nationwide, as frustrated passengers struggle to find alternative ways to travel

American Airlines canceled the flights to conduct inspections of its MD-80 aircraft. It says the action was necessary to comply with government safety regulations.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has ordered the airline to inspect wires in the MD-80's wheel wells.

The administration increased its scrutiny of airline safety after inspection and maintenance lapses were discovered at Southwest Airlines.

Several U.S. carriers -- including Delta, Alaska and Midwest Airlines -- have grounded their aircraft this week as a result of the government audit.

The U.S. airline industry is already suffering from high fuel prices and growing customer dissatisfaction over delays, flight cancellations and lost luggage.