California nurse Brianna Solari has accused Southwest Airlines of discrimination after being removed from a flight due to her skin condition. Solari, who had recently undergone surgery to treat neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder causing non-cancerous tumors, was on her way home when the incident occurred. She described feeling humiliated and embarrassed during the ordeal.
Solari reported that a crew member confronted her at Hollywood Burbank Airport and questioned her medical condition, which led to her being asked to leave Southwest Flight 3471. Despite explaining her situation and requesting to speak with a doctor, Solari was not allowed to discuss her condition with the airline’s physician. This experience caused her significant distress and disrupted her travel plans.
After missing her initial flight, Solari had to provide a letter from her surgeon to board a new flight. Southwest Airlines issued an apology, offering her a $500 flight voucher and a $45 meal voucher. The airline acknowledged the inconvenience caused and is following up with Solari directly.
Despite this, Solari remains critical of the airline’s handling of the situation and is considering legal action, citing violations of her medical privacy and ongoing discrimination
