Two friends, Tara Kehidi and Teresa Araujo, were allegedly asked to leave a Spirit Airlines flight from Los Angeles to New Orleans on October 4, due to their clothing choices. The situation unfolded after the pair, initially dressed in sweaters, removed them due to the lack of air conditioning on the plane, revealing crop tops that showed a portion of their midriffs.
Incident and Reaction
According to the New York Post, a male flight attendant approached the women, instructing them to “put something on.” When the two asked about the airline’s dress code policy, the attendant reportedly walked away without providing any explanation. The women later claimed they were not shown any policy or given a clear reason for the demand.
“We were just wearing crop tops, a little bit of stomach showing,” Kehidi shared, describing the incident as both confusing and discriminatory.
Although other passengers supported them, a supervisor intervened, threatening to call the police if they didn’t comply. Eventually, the women, along with a mother traveling with a toddler, were escorted off the plane. Araujo mentioned that the supervisor had initially promised to rebook their tickets but later refused, citing no available flights.
Social Media Response
On October 6, Araujo took to social media to express her frustration, sharing videos recounting the events. In her post, she said, “This is appalling service, that in 2024 we are getting kicked out of a plane for ONE MALE flight attendant not liking our shirts. Everyone working at the airport agreed this was an act of prejudice, discrimination and misogynist and that we should take legal actions.”
Araujo also revealed that she had to spend $1,000 to book another flight with a different airline. Both women claimed they had offered to put their sweaters back on, but the flight attendant refused, saying it was too late.
Treated Like Criminals
Reflecting on the ordeal, Araujo told ABC7 Chicago, “We were kind of embarrassed as well, because we felt we were being treated like… like criminals, you know. Everyone in the plane was looking at us.”
The women are now considering legal action, and the incident has ignited discussions about airline dress codes and potential biases. Spirit Airlines’ policy mentions that passengers must dress “appropriately,” but it does not specify guidelines about midriff-revealing tops.
Spirit Airlines’ Response
In a statement to The Independent, a Spirit Airlines representative said, “Our Contract of Carriage, a document all Guests agree to upon making a reservation with us, includes certain clothing standards for all Guests traveling with us. We are investigating the matter, and we are in contact with the Guests about their experience.”
According to Spirit Airlines’ Contract of Carriage, any passenger may be removed from the aircraft if their attire is deemed “inadequately clothed, or whose clothing is lewd, obscene or offensive in nature.” The situation continues to raise questions about dress codes and customer treatment on flights.
This year, with Ashtami and Navami being celebrated on the same day, devotees will have the unique opportunity to witness and partake in the rituals and prayers of both Tithis simultaneously. Whether you choose to perform Kanya Pujan, Sandhi Puja, or simply offer your prayers to the goddess, ensure that you follow the prescribed timings to maximise the benefits of these auspicious observances. May Goddess Durga bless everyone with strength, prosperity, and happiness on this special occasion of Navratri 2024.