British Airways was fined more than £3 million for what was described as negligence over the safety of aircraft loaders.
Two aircraft loader suffered similar falls from televators which are used to load baggage on planes.
This hydraulic typically works at about three metres above ground when loading baggage and cargo.
The workers both fell and suffered serious injuries after operating the machines. One broke his back while the other suffered bleeding on the brain.
The prosecution was brought by the Health and Safety Executive.
BA had pleaded guilty to two breaches of the Work at Height Regulations.
Southwark Crown Court Judge Brendan Finucane said the airline was ‘culpable’ as it did not protect workers by installing rails to stop falls.
“I am satisfied that in both incidents the culpability was high,” the judge said.
He imposed a £3,208,333 fine and also ordered BA to pay £20,935 in costs.
Both incidents happened at London Heathrow Airport just a few months apart.
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