MIAMI--Eastern Airlines, which was attacked by Michael Dukakis during his run for the presidency, has sued the 1988 Democratic nominee's campaign committee.

Eastern is owed $444,830, the airline claims in a Miami federal court suit filed recently. Eastern stopped flying January 18, after 62 years of service, but is still trying to sell assets and settle claims to pay as much of its $3 billion-plus debt as possible.

Eastern's breach-of-contract suit stems from use of Eastern by the Dukakis for President Committee and Dukakis-Bentsen Committee, which are named as defendants. Texas Sen. Lloyd Bentsen (D-Tex.) was his running mate.

Using a special credit card, the committees ran up $544,830 in fees.

Both sides met in January 1990 to discuss the delinquent bill, Eastern spokesperson Karen Ceremsak said Wednesday. One month later, Eastern received $100,000, leaving a balance of $444,830, she said.

Boston attorney Dan Taylor, who is representing the Dukakis committee, would not comment on the suit.