Page 9 - Short Cases 1 United Airlines Teaching Note

The incineration of Simon the giant rabbit by the United

was, to some, tantamount to "destroying evidence" in the

case. The airline cremated the remains without the

permission of the ownership group.

"Whatever the cause of Simon's death may be, Simon

died in the care of United Airlines' and its decision to

destroy his remains establishes a reckless disregard for

the Simon Group's rights and are indicative of the

negligent care United Airlines provided Simon," a demand

letter from the attorney reads. (3)

Negligence would appear to be the kindest comment that

could be laid at United’s door. No matter what defence
United put forward there would seem to be a case for

seeing poor training as being a causal factor in the

demise of Simon.