Nigerian Carrier United Airlines Takes Action Against Employee for Mishandling Disabled Traveler

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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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

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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.

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“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.

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

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

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“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.

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

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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.

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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.

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

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