Sun Sep 15 15:43:04 UTC 2024: ## Frontier Airlines Accused of Discrimination and Mishandling Deaf Passenger
A new lawsuit has been filed against Frontier Airlines alleging that a gate agent deliberately prevented a partially deaf passenger from boarding his flight due to his inability to hear her through her face mask.
Ivaylo Dodev, the plaintiff, was traveling with his wife to celebrate her birthday. The couple, who were unfamiliar with Frontier’s strict baggage policies, were stopped at the gate for having two carry-on bags. While attempting to pay the fee at a separate counter, Dodev, who is partially deaf in one ear and relies on lip-reading, was unable to hear the gate agent due to her N95 mask.
When Dodev informed the agent he couldn’t hear her, the lawsuit claims her demeanor became hostile. The agent allegedly refused to process their payment and allowed the flight to depart without the Dodevs, despite their repeated attempts to pay the fee.
Dodev contacted the police, who were unable to obtain a valid reason for the refusal of boarding. Frontier staff allegedly told the Dodevs they “are not allowed to fly,” without providing any explanation.
The lawsuit accuses Frontier of discrimination based on the Dodevs’ European background, violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, infliction of emotional distress, defamation, and breach of contract.
This incident follows another recent complaint against Frontier involving a gate agent allegedly attempting to remove a passenger from her seat to accommodate a standby passenger. The woman, who had already boarded and taken her seat, was forced to deplane after being told she could be arrested if she refused.
The lawsuit highlights concerns about Frontier’s passenger handling practices, specifically concerning discrimination and the mishandling of passengers with disabilities.
Frontier Airlines has yet to comment on the allegations.
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