We have heard several incidents of inebriated passengers misbehaving with co-passengers and cabin crew members. We have also read about rude travellers arguing with flight attendants. However, we are surprised to hear about an airline threatening its passengers this time. According to several reports, United Airlines allegedly threatened business class passengers to give up their seats. But why?
United Airlines Threatened Business Class Passengers To Vacate Seats
On Sunday, the shocking news was reported on Los Angeles-London United Airlines flight 923. Reportedly, the airline threatened all the onboard passengers would get removed from the plane if three passengers travelling in Polaris Business class cabin did not agree to give up their seats and shift to the extra legroom coach. The airline demanded this change to accommodate the flight attendants.
A passenger revealed that gate agents stated the crew’s resting facilities were not operational, according to a report by PYOK. Though maintenance personnel tried fixing the bunk areas, their efforts went in vain as they were unable to resolve the problems.
FAA guidelines and the United flight attendant contract state that flight attendants must get proper rest on long-haul journeys to remain efficient in handling any unexpected critical phases of the aircraft. The journey from Los Angeles to London was for over ten hours and the crew needed to rest. As the business class cabin was completely packed, United Airlines asked passengers to give up their seats for attendants voluntarily.
Did Passengers Leave Their Seats?
A passenger pointed out that the announcement about asking for seats came across like a threat, according to a report by View from the Wing. Initially, none of the travellers volunteered to give up their seats and move to the extra legroom coach. Despite getting an offer of a travel credit of $1,500 and 75,000 MileagePlus miles, no one listened to the gate agents. Once again, the airline offered $2,500 in travel credits. Hearing the new offer, three volunteers agreed. The flight to London finally departed after around 44 minutes.
Airlines usually keep separate business class seats for flight attendants to rest during long-haul flights. But engineers realised the issue after everyone boarded the aircraft.
Also read: Video: United Airlines Boeing Loses Wheel After Departing From LA Airport; No Injuries Recorded
Have you ever faced such ordeals on a flight?
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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