Lisec

This appeal is from an order of the trial court granting a motion by respondent for a new trial after denial of its motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict. The verdict, on the 51st day of trial, awarded appellants $368,049 compensatory and $1,476,194 punitive damages. A cross-appeal was filed, wherein respondent United Air Lines, Inc., (hereinafter United) asks that judgment of the trial court in favor of appellants be reversed and that this action be remanded with directions to dismiss the complaint. This contention should be examined first, for if sound, it will dispose of the case in its entirety, inasmuch as United argues that there is a lack of substantial evidence to support any judgment.

The salient facts are these: Since 1936, United has maintained a “Suggestion Program” which processes many Suggestions received from its employees, Suggestions made to improve operations and the financial condition of United. The company maintains rules for the Suggestion Program, which represent to its employees what procedures will be followed in handling their Suggestions and determining appropriate awards for those whose Suggestions are accepted.

The preface to the…