New Zealand Couple Receives $1,400 Compensation After Enduring Flight Next to Flatulent Dog.
New Zealand – A New Zealand couple, Gill and Warren Press, who had the misfortune of enduring a 13-hour flight seated next to a “slobbering, farting, and whining” dog, has finally received $1,410 in compensation from Singapore Airlines, as reported by People.
The incident took place in June of this year when the couple was returning to New Zealand from Europe, having boarded a 13-hour flight from Paris to Singapore. To their surprise, they discovered that they would be sharing their seats with a canine companion.
Expressing their grievances, Mrs. Press complained to a flight attendant about the dog’s snorting, drooling, and flatulence issues, while also recounting that the dog had encroached on Mr. Press’ legroom by placing its head under his feet, leading to saliva dripping onto his leg.
However, when the couple asked for a seat change, they were informed by the cabin crew that the only available seats were located at the rear of the economy class section.
Despite the inconvenience, the couple decided to remain in their premium seats. Nevertheless, they later insisted that halfway through the flight, the dog’s presence became unbearable.
Upon landing, the couple filed an official incident report and was advised that the airline would contact them. Eventually, Singapore Airlines issued an apology and provided them with two $73 gift vouchers. However, the couple considered this compensation inadequate since they had switched from premium economy to economy seats.
Following months of correspondence and negotiations, the airline eventually agreed to compensate the couple for the price difference between their premium and economy seats, amounting to approximately $1,400, as a goodwill gesture. The couple was also allowed to keep the previously issued travel vouchers.
Mrs. Gill stated, “That’s the least they could do. If they wanted to be really nice, they could’ve given us way more. The principle wasn’t about the money, it was truly about making people accountable. I expect to see a baby. I expect young children. But I don’t expect a dog.”
The couple now intends to donate the compensation money to an organization that matches vision-impaired individuals with service dogs, as reported by Insider.
Singapore Airlines, in a prior statement to Insider, had mentioned, “SIA endeavors to notify customers who may be seated next to an assistance dog prior to boarding. In circumstances where customers seated next to an assistance dog request to be moved, we will assist to re-seat customers within the same cabin if space permits.”