Qatar Airways is the best airline in the world. That’s what the rating portal AirlineRatings.com ruled in July. However, for influencer Juliana Nehme (38), her experience with the airline turned into a nightmare.
The Brazilian was on holiday in Lebanon in November and wanted to fly back home via Doha with Qatar Airways. But at first nothing came of it.
In Beirut, the 150-kilogram woman was not allowed on board. “A flight attendant from Qatar called my mother during check-in and told her that I am not welcome because I am too fat,” she describes the situation on Instagram.
“I’m fat, but I have the same rights”
The next shock at the counter: Juliana would buy a business class ticket for about 3,000 francs. The airline employees didn’t seem to care that they had already paid some 1,000 francs for their economy class flight.
Qatar Airways denies the allegations, explaining in a statement: “Anyone who takes a seat in front of other passengers and is unable to fasten must purchase another seat for safety reasons and the comfort of all passengers.” While travelers in Economy Class sit close together, the airline advertises on its website that it has “generous space” in Business Class.
Allegations of discrimination against Qatar Airways
Nehme refused and stayed with her mother in Beirut for the time being. For two hours she begged to be allowed on the plane – without success. To this day, the 38-year-old writes that she has not received the 1,000 francs for the return flight.
It’s a shame that companies like Qatar Airways allow this discrimination, she says. “I’m fat, but I have the same rights as other people.”
Therapy “appropriate and proportionate”
In the end, the Brazilian embassy in Beirut arranged their return flight. Once home, she sued the airline. With success: the company has to pay the traumatized plus-size model a year of therapy for the psychological damage she has suffered. The value of the treatment is almost 3,000 francs.
The court in São Paulo, which ruled in the case, sees it as “an appropriate and proportionate measure to ensure that the stressful and traumatic event is overcome,” said Judge Renata Martins de Carvalho.
On Instagram, Nehme thanked her 168,000 followers who stood by her during this difficult time. “Let’s keep fighting for a fairer world, free from fat phobia and all forms of prejudice,” she said. (nad)
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
