Compensation for mid-air injury

It’s not uncommon to receive compensation for a flight delay or inoperative entertainment system, but what about a mid-air injury? One member was recently hurt on a Qantas flight after stepping on broken glass. The incident occurred shortly after take-off, with the glass somehow having been left in the aisle. The passenger was not wearing shoes at the time of the incident.

The cabin crew were apologetic and swiftly administered first aid. But our member says that they were left to pick up the remainder of the broken glass themselves, as the crew did not take any action to do so.

Our member received a bottle of wine by way of apology, but wonders whether they are entitled to further compensation. Some members agree that more should have been done, while others believe that Qantas’ response was appropriate.

Some members opine that the passenger was partly responsible for the injury because they were not wearing any shoes. These members believe that this may limit any compensation owed to the passenger. Others say that passengers do not expect to find glass on the floor of an aircraft, and our member would have been unaware of the risk.

While our members are divided on the issue of compensation, most agree that it’s a good idea to always wear shoes when moving around an aircraft cabin.

Join the discussion HERE.

The editor of Australian Frequent Flyer, Matt's passion for travel has taken him to over 70 countries… with the help of frequent flyer points, of course!
Matt's favourite destinations (so far) are Germany, Brazil & Kazakhstan. His interests include economics, aviation & foreign languages, and he has a soft spot for good food and red wine.

You can connect with Matt by posting on the Australian Frequent Flyer community forum and tagging @AFF Editor.
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