An easyJet passenger who suffered a severe allergic reaction mid-flight has criticised the airline, claiming he was abandoned in France and forced to spend over £3,000 to return to Northern Ireland, despite meeting all the airline's requirements.
The flight from Malaga to Belfast International Airport was diverted to Brest on Sunday after the man, who has a severe airborne nut allergy, became ill. Emergency services met the aircraft, and he received medical attention before being discharged.
The passenger, who wished to remain anonymous, told Belfast Live that easyJet initially booked him and a companion on a flight from Brest to London Gatwick, followed by a connection to Belfast. However, he was later told he needed a fitness-to-fly certificate. He obtained one from a local medical centre, which confirmed he was fit to fly, and provided proof of additional EpiPens as requested.
Despite this, he was stopped at the gate and told the pilot refused to let him board. He said easyJet staff were unhelpful, and he had to arrange his own journey home via Paris, London, and Dublin, costing over £3,000. He criticised easyJet's statement that he was able to continue his journey on Sunday, saying he only arrived home the following day after multiple flights.
EasyJet has been contacted for comment regarding the discrepancies in their statement and whether compensation will be offered.
