A Southwest Airlines passenger has vowed never to fly with the airline again after what they described as humiliating treatment by flight attendants. The passenger, a frequent flyer and former travel agent, called the crew’s behaviour completely unacceptable.
Complaint During St. Louis to Sacramento Flight
The incident occurred on a flight from St. Louis to Sacramento after a day filled with delays. Travelling with their daughter, the passenger initially chose an aisle and window seat before moving to the middle to help others find seats.
Discomfort and Crew’s Reaction
A larger traveller soon took the aisle seat and encroached on the passenger’s space. Feeling uncomfortable, they requested a seating adjustment from the flight attendant. Instead of help, the passenger says they faced harassment and were accused of discrimination.
Escalation and Threat of Removal
The flight attendant reportedly called in other crew members and a gate agent. The group allegedly warned the passenger to stay silent or face removal from the flight. Even after cooperating, the traveller was forced to confirm they were “fine” before take-off.
Passenger Rights and Airline Conduct
The passenger later said the entire experience was traumatic and unjust. The incident exposes growing tension between airline inclusivity policies and passenger comfort rights. In this case, Southwest’s handling appears insensitive to a genuine concern.
