A family travelling to Disney World was refused entry to Manchester Airport's Aspire Lounge because their personalised Minnie Mouse T-shirts allegedly violated the dress code. Emma Raikes, from Yorkshire, was flying to Florida on Monday with six relatives, including a two-year-old niece, and had paid £107 for lounge access.
Staff told the group their T-shirts did not fit the lounge dress code, which prohibits tour shirts, sportswear and fancy dress. Ms Raikes said the family was initially delayed due to a booking issue, but no mention was made of their clothing at that time. When her mother arrived, staff denied entry over the T-shirts.
Ms Raikes noted that a man and young boy wearing Manchester United football tops were allowed in without issue, making the family feel targeted. She argued the T-shirts were not offensive or sportswear, but simply personalised tops for their Disney holiday. The family was eventually allowed in after covering the shirts with jumpers and cardigans.
Operator Swissport apologised, stating the staff member misinterpreted the dress code and was wrong to ask the family to cover their shirts. The company said it would re-educate the lounge team to prevent a recurrence. Swissport encouraged the family to contact them directly to resolve the matter.
