While business travelers may not feel the pinch, families certainly do. The situation is deteriorating—not just with rising fees, cramped seats, and endless inconveniences, but with the dismissive attitude from airlines that suggests we should be thankful for any scraps they throw our way. And if we dare to ask for a bit more assistance, we’re often met with indifference.
You might have come across a recent headline about a family being removed from a flight after their daughter with special needs was labeled as “disruptive.” Initially, I scrolled past, thinking it didn’t pertain to me. But as more articles emerged, I felt compelled to click and read. The story revealed how poorly the flight attendants treated the teenager, whose “special needs” were quite manageable. The family’s main desire was simple: a little compassion and support.
In a nutshell, Dr. Mia Johnson was flying with her husband and their 15-year-old daughter, Lily, who became hungry mid-flight. When offered a meal, she turned it down, requesting something hot instead. Dr. Johnson asked the crew to warm up a chicken sandwich they had purchased, but they flatly refused. She even offered to pay for a meal from first class, but that was denied as well. Frustrated, she suggested that perhaps the crew would be more accommodating if her daughter became upset. Only then did they begrudgingly provide a hot meal.
Once Lily settled down, enjoying her food and a movie, an announcement came over the intercom indicating a diversion to Salt Lake City due to a passenger issue. To Dr. Johnson’s shock, it turned out the “issue” was her family, who were escorted off the plane despite Lily being calm and other passengers confirming there was no problem.
Dr. Johnson has since filed complaints against the airline and the Federal Aviation Administration, and while she is considering legal action, her aim is not financial gain but to compel the airline to provide better training for their staff. It’s not about needing to educate them on autism or other conditions; it’s about fostering an understanding that these situations exist and that a little kindness goes a long way. She wasn’t a demanding parent seeking special treatment, but rather a mother wanting to ensure a smooth journey for her family and fellow travelers.
Unfortunately, this trend of airlines disregarding families is becoming all too common. For instance, a father flying from Raleigh, NC, to Montgomery, AL, had to pay an additional $88 just to sit next to his 4-year-old daughter, only to find multiple empty seats onboard. In another incident, a mother and her baby were removed from a flight because the mom responded curtly to a request regarding her baby’s seating.
It’s high time airlines show appreciation for family travelers, remembering that we have choices—just as they remind us when we disembark. Families contribute significantly to their bottom line and deserve better treatment.
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In summary, it’s clear that airlines need to reevaluate how they treat families. Rather than feeling like a burden, we should feel valued as customers. Compassion and understanding from airline staff can make all the difference in ensuring a pleasant travel experience for everyone.