Air Canada is under scrutiny and has issued apologies after a recent flight from Las Vegas to Montreal left passengers in distress when their seats were reportedly soiled with vomit. The incident, which occurred on August 26, has drawn attention on social media, with one passenger detailing their unpleasant experience. The airline acknowledges that its operating procedures were not followed correctly and has initiated an internal review of the matter.
Unfortunate In-Flight Experience
A woman who claimed to be a passenger on the ill-fated August 26 flight shared her ordeal on social media. She alleged that the flight crew resorted to placing coffee grinds in the seat pouch and spraying perfume in an attempt to mask the smell of vomit before the passengers boarded. The woman further stated that her seat, as well as the seat in front of her, was wet with vomit residue, and the unpleasant odor lingered.
Passengers Seek Assistance
Upon discovering the soiled seats, the distressed passengers alerted a flight attendant. Susan Benson, one of the passengers, recounted her experience in an interview with CTV News Montreal. She explained that she told the flight attendant, “My seat is wet. It’s on the front of the seat in front of me. It’s on my seatbelt. It’s just disgusting.” Despite their complaints, the flight attendant apologized but conveyed that the flight was fully booked, leaving them with limited options.
Efforts to Address the Situation
Passengers were offered blankets, wipes, and additional sick bags to make their journey more comfortable. However, as the flight continued, Benson reported that the pilot approached them and requested that they disembark the aircraft. This unexpected turn of events was met with surprise and confusion among the affected passengers.
Alleged Removal of Passengers
According to Benson, after the pilot’s request, they observed the pilot leaving the cockpit and walking toward the front of the plane. Shortly thereafter, security personnel arrived and escorted two female passengers off the aircraft.
Air Canada’s Response
In response to the incident, CTV News reached out to Air Canada for clarification and confirmation of the passenger’s account. Air Canada acknowledged the incident and expressed regret, stating that the airline was “reviewing this serious matter internally” and had reached out to the affected customers directly.
The airline admitted that its operating procedures were not correctly followed in this instance and emphasized that the passengers did not receive the standard of care they were entitled to. Air Canada pledged to remain in contact with the passengers involved as part of its efforts to address the matter.