Delta Air Lines has agreed to pay $79 million to settle a class-action lawsuit stemming from a 2020 incident in which one of its jets dumped thousands of gallons of fuel over Los Angeles neighborhoods, including several schoolyards.

The settlement, approved Monday, resolves claims by teachers, students, and residents of Cudahy who said they were exposed to jet fuel while a Boeing 777-200 made an emergency return to Los Angeles International Airport. The aircraft, bound for Shanghai, released about 15,000 gallons of fuel to reduce weight after one of its engines lost thrust shortly after takeoff. The plane landed safely.

Emergency crews were dispatched to schools where nearly 60 children and teachers were treated for minor skin and respiratory irritation. None were hospitalized, but teachers reported fuel on their clothes, skin, and eyes. Many later sought medical care and described ongoing physical and emotional effects. Homeowners also joined the case, which was certified as a class action.

According to court documents, the aircraft exceeded its maximum landing weight by more than 160,000 pounds. Delta said the crew’s decision to dump fuel was intended to minimize the risks of landing overweight on a single engine, a scenario that could cause structural damage and require extensive inspections.

Delta denied liability as part of the settlement, stating that the agreement was reached to avoid the costs of trial and the continued disruption of litigation.

The settlement covers claims of physical exposure, emotional harm, and property damage. Specific payout details for individual plaintiffs have not been disclosed.