U.S. seeks $1.3 million fine for United Airlines over cargo

WASHINGTON - Safety regulators seek to fine United Airlines $1.3 million, claiming that the carrier violated rules about shipping hazardous material often by inaccurately describing the amount of the cargo.

The Federal Aviation Administration said Tuesday that inspectors found at least 120 violations. Most were for failing to give pilots accurate information about the weight, quantity and location on the plane of items such as lithium metal batteries, corrosive liquids and radioactive materials. The FAA said that United twice improperly accepted hazardous material for air shipments.

The FAA said the violations were found during 2013 inspections in Boston, San Francisco, Denver and Chicago.

United spokesman Luke Punzenberger said the airline tries to properly inform pilots about all safety-related factors. He said United was reviewing a letter from the FAA and would cooperate with the agency. The FAA said United had pledged to improve training for employees who load hazardous material.

United has 30 days to answer the FAA. Airlines often negotiate over proposed penalties.