In a shocking incident that has ignited a firestorm on social media, former Playboy model Sara Blake Cheek has publicly accused American Airlines of a humiliating and unjust removal from a flight. The alleged event, which she describes as a severe violation of her rights, occurred on a plane bound for Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
Cheek took to her Instagram platform to share a detailed and emotional video account of the ordeal. She claims her nightmare began when she politely asked a flight attendant if she could use the bathroom before takeoff, as the aircraft was still stationary at the gate. According to her testimony, this simple request was met with inexplicable hostility.
'I Was Escorted Off Like a Criminal'
"I was treated like a criminal for absolutely no reason," Cheek stated in her viral post. She alleges that the flight attendant's attitude escalated quickly, leading to the pilot becoming involved. Despite asserting that she remained calm and compliant throughout the interaction, Cheek says she was ultimately ordered off the aircraft.
The most distressing part of her story involves being escorted off the plane by armed officers. "To be met by police officers and have them walk me through the airport was one of the most humiliating experiences of my life," she recounted, visibly upset in her video. She maintains that at no point was she given a clear, valid explanation for her removal.
American Airlines Under Fire
The public outcry following Cheek's post was swift and severe. Thousands of users across Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) expressed their support for her and their condemnation of the airline's alleged actions. The hashtag #BoycottAmericanAirlines began trending as users shared their own negative experiences with airline staff.
In response to the growing PR crisis, American Airlines issued a standardised statement confirming an "event" on flight 1009 to Cabo San Lucas and acknowledging they are reviewing the matter. However, critics and passengers alike are demanding a more thorough and transparent investigation into the crew's conduct.
A Question of Passenger Rights
This incident raises serious questions about the power dynamics between airline staff and passengers and the protocols for such removals. Aviation experts suggest that while pilots have ultimate authority over the aircraft's safety, this power must be exercised judiciously and with clear justification.
As the review continues, all eyes are on American Airlines to see how they handle these serious allegations. For Sara Blake Cheek, the experience has been a traumatic one that she hopes will lead to change and prevent others from facing a similar fate.
