A man who had secured a lifetime pass allowing him free first-class flights until his death was stripped of the privilege after failing to adhere to a solitary rule.
As reported by The Points Guy, a first-class domestic flight within the United States with American Airlines ranges from $1,170 to $4,790.
While many fortunate individuals might occasionally indulge in a first-class ticket, Steven Rothstein had the opportunity to enjoy luxury travel every time he flew.
How did he manage this, you wonder? Back in 1987, at the age of 37, the stockbroker purchased an AAirpass from American Airlines for $250,000.
In the subsequent years, Rothstein opted to add a companion pass for an additional $150,000.
Rothstein was among 66 individuals who seized the chance to own the coveted ticket, with American Airlines imposing just one clear rule regarding its use.
Rothstein shared with the Guardian: “When I bought the AAirpass, in no uncertain terms, they told me that there was only one rule: I couldn’t give anybody the AAirpass.
“And those were the days before they took identification from passengers.”
Despite adhering to this rule, and even rejecting a colleague’s $5,000 weekly offer to use the pass, American Airlines accused him of ‘fraudulent’ behavior.
The airline alleged Rothstein engaged in ‘speculative bookings’ for flights he never intended to take.
They also claimed he reserved seats for fictitious travelers using names like ‘Bag Rothstein’ and ‘Steven Rothstein Jr’.
His pass was revoked in 2008, leading American Airlines to file a lawsuit against him.
This was not the only legal battle between Rothstein and the airline; in 2009, he sued American Airlines for breaching their agreement by revoking his AAirpass, seeking $7 million in damages.
The dispute was ultimately settled out of court, with Rothstein’s appeal dismissed and the airline’s counterclaims dismissed with prejudice.
Rothstein was not alone in losing his AAirpass; Jacques E. Vroom Jr. also had his ticket revoked due to alleged ‘fraudulent activity’.
Over 23 years, Vroom accumulated 38 million miles, incurring substantial costs for the airline.
American Airlines conveyed to the Guardian: “We are pleased to continue to provide AirPass benefits to eligible cardholders when enjoyed in conjunction with the appropriate program conditions.”