Airline suspends staff over alleged unfair treatment of amputee passenger

By Chimezie Anaso

The Management of United Nigeria Airline says it has suspended a female staff member for alleged unprofessional treatment of Ms. Doris Akonanya, an amputee passenger.

The airline, in a statement signed by Chibuike Uloka, its Public Relations Officer, on Wednesday, also said it had commenced investigation into the incident which happened on March 30.

Akonanya, an amputee, had lamented through a viral video that she received a subhuman treatment while trying to catch a flight from Abuja to Yenegoa, Bayelsa State.

She said she arrived at the airport early and bought her ticket but was denied the assurance that she needed, by a particular staff member who was supposed to process her boarding.

The passenger exonerated the airline for the dehumanising treatment but demanded that the female staff member involved should be called to order.

The airline, however, condemned the incident and expressed unreserved apology to the lady and members of her family for the ugly incident.

The company said the action did not reflect the ethics, values and vision of the company, noting that the safety, dignity, and well-being of all passengers remained their priority.

“United Nigeria Airlines wishes to confirm receipt of an incident report involving a passenger with reduced mobility, Ms. Doris Akonanya, during the check-in process for Flight UN0526 from Abuja to Yenagoa on March 30.

“The report includes allegations of unprofessional conduct by a particular staff regarding her condition.

“The staff member involved has been suspended and a full investigation commenced.

“We are engaging all relevant parties to establish the facts and will take appropriate action in line with our policies of zero tolerance to any form of misconduct.

“We are particular about passengers with reduced mobility who require additional care and support,” he said.

The airline said it had been in direct contact with the passenger and her family to whom it had extended apologies and assured them that their concerns would be addressed.

It said it operated a zero-tolerance policy for any form of misconduct, discrimination or abuse, and is firmly committed to providing safe, respectful, and accessible travel for all.

“We will continue to strengthen our training, processes, and oversight to prevent a recurrence,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu