Armed police were called to remove an angry family from a plane after they were reportedly asked to give up a business class seat for an airline staff member.
Ivan Lopes, accompanied by his wife and two daughters aged 25 and 11, encountered the incident on an Air France flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to Salvador, Brazil, following a European trip that commenced in Milan, Italy.
The family faced issues at the departure gate in Paris after upgrading to business class tickets from premium economy for €399 (£346) per person. Allegedly, staff informed them that an upgrade for one of their daughters to seat 7L was not possible due to a purported “technical problem.”
Upon boarding, the family discovered seat 7L was occupied by a French passenger believed to be associated with Air France, while the seat with the alleged technical issue was actually 5L. This discrepancy led to a confrontation in front of other passengers, which the family described as “humiliating” and “intimidating.”
According to Mr. Lopes, the situation escalated with the captain and cabin crew, resulting in the family being escorted off the aircraft by armed French police. They were informed they had to purchase new tickets if they wished to travel the next day.
After seeking legal advice, the family bought four new business class tickets with another airline. Mr. Lopes stated that their luggage was delayed for approximately two hours post-incident.
Estimating a financial loss of approximately €16,000 (£14,000), including original Air France tickets, upgrade fees, replacement flights, and additional expenses, the family intends to sue the airline for compensation and damages, citing disproportionate and distressing treatment, particularly for the 11-year-old.
While Air France acknowledged the family’s removal from the flight, the airline disputed their version of events. Air France contended that the family’s behavior was disruptive and caused delays and safety concerns, prompting the decision to remove them in accordance with international regulations to ensure flight safety and orderliness.