Wendi Williams, who was flying from New Orleans to Charlotte claims that when she first reclined her seat, the man in the seat behind her asked her to put it back up while he ate – and she complied. However, when he finished eating, she reclined the seat again and alleges he then “punched my seat about nine times.” In retaliation she then did what everyone does these days – took a video and posted it on Twitter. The reaction was mixed. And, oh yeah, we have the video. VIDEO.
She wrote on Twitter: “I’m in pain. I have one cervical disk left that isn’t fused – the first one which allows me some mobility.
“It’s scary because it’s this kind of injury that could do it in. I am grateful for the limited movement I still have and shouldn’t have had to endure repeated blows.”
Williams says that when she complained to a flight attendant, they offered the man a complimentary drink and threatened to have her escorted off the plane.
She also tweeted, “The airline didn’t really accept any culpability, although she apologized and said what happened was wrong – that’s it.”
She says that after complaining to American Airlines, she was told she would have to get in touch with the FBI “to get any resolution”.
Twitter response was mixed. Some supported Williams tweeting, “can’t believe American Airlines did nothing for this poor woman but gave this creep a drink.”
Another noted, “I would have stood up and said “hey pal, I paid for this seat, the whole seat so keep your hands to yourself”. And then loudly complained he’s harassing me and I’m afraid of what he will do. Kept calling the flight attendant.”
But not all were sympathetic, including one who tweeted: “I’m 6ft 5 and can’t stand inconsiderate people putting their seats back. Being the size I am, I still won’t recline due to having courtesy for others. If it was me you wouldn’t have got your seat back so count yourself lucky this guy let you.” (Not quite sure what he means by this – would he ripped off the back of the seat, or tossed her from the seat? Who knows?)
Another said,” The seat was most likely not his choice. She is complaining that he is not being considerate to her, well what is she doing?”
A spokesperson for American Airlines said: ‘We are aware of a customer dispute that transpired on American Eagle flight 4392, operated by Republic Airways, on January 31.
‘The safety and comfort of our customers and team members is our top priority, and our team is looking into the issue.’
Okay, readers, weigh in – who’s right?
I’ll go first if you like – and even if you don’t:
Regardless of any medical issues which really just muddy the water, she paid for her seat, was considerate enough to straighten it while he ate, and then reclined it again. If he doesn’t like to be cramped – he could pay more for an emergency row or a bulkhead or even more for an upgrade. If he didn’t want to, or for some reason could not avail himself of those options, act like an adult, not a five year old.
The fact that the flight attendants didn’t try to stop him is a disgrace. At the very least American Airlines owes Williams an apology. Telling her to contact the FBI “for resolution” was ridiculous and insulting. What on earth would the FBI do? However, providing seats on your aircraft that might actually accommodate the ever-increasing girth of passengers rather than reducing them exponentially … now, that might be an idea.
That’s my take. Your turn.