Pegasus Airlines: Discriminatory And Aggressive Staff At Gatwick

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Today at London Gatwick Airport, during check-in for my Pegasus flight, I had a very upsetting experience with a member of staff named U***. I am 6 ft 6 in tall and politely asked for an extra legroom seat due to my height. She was reluctant to help and told me I would need to pay extra, which I agreed to without any issue. She then suddenly started asking quick questions about whether I had a disability. I answered no, and made a light-hearted comment about having a bad back because I had been standing in the queue for about 50 minutes. This was clearly a joke and I clarified that, explaining that I am a rugby player and a football coach and not someone with a disability. Despite this, she refused to help, told me no, and instructed me to leave in a rude and aggressive manner. What made the situation even worse was that she used the phrase “you people” which came across as subconsciously racist and deeply disrespectful. I felt discriminated against, humiliated and completely unsupported as a paying customer who had simply requested a suitable seat for my height and agreed to pay the fee. I have always loved visiting Turkey and I am genuinely fond of its history, culture and famous hospitality, which is why this incident felt completely at odds with the values I associate with your country and your airline. I request that Pegasus carries out a full investigation into the conduct of this staff member, provides me with a formal written apology, ensures that appropriate training is given regarding respectful communication and non-discrimination, and considers reasonable compensation for the distress and poor treatment I experienced at your check-in desk today.

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