Source: Mandurah Mail
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MORE than two weeks after being banned from taking his wheelchair on board an Air Asia flight, Halls Head man Peter Darch is still waiting to hear from the company.
What was meant to be a “cheap family holiday” for the 29-year-old quadriplegic man turned into a nightmare with the cost blow-out compounding the indignity suffered by the former WA Young Australian of the Year.
The drama unfolded two weeks ago when Mr Darch checked in prior to his flight to Bali and was told his electric wheelchair would not be able to be carried on board the plane.
Aware of Air Asia’s policy of refusing to carry battery-operated wheelchairs, Mr Darch said he offered to remove the battery.
The airline refused the offer and a wheelchair loaned to Mr Darch after landing in Bali had to be returned once he cleared customs.
Mr Darch’s wife, Azucena, finally made it to Bali with the wheelchair after waiting overnight for a Garuda flight.
“It was ridiculous,” Mr Darch said.
“I still haven’t heard a thing from Air Asia.”
I still haven’t heard a thing from Air Asia.
- Peter Darch
Citing discrimination, Mr Darch has lodged a complaint with the Australian Human Rights Commission.
He wants an apology.
And he wants expenses incurred throughout the ordeal refunded.
“My wife had to stay at the airport all night,” he said.
“It then cost us an extra $1500 for a new flight for my wife and transportation of my chair.”
Now back on home soil, Mr Darch said he was disappointed the only way to contact Air Asia was through an online form.
And while his official complaint is being dealt with by authorities, he has yet to receive an explanation from Air Asia.
“I haven’t heard a thing,” he said.
“I have travelled [with my wheelchair] with Qantas, Virgin, Jetstar, Garuda and Singapore Air.
“There has never been a problem until now.”
The Mandurah Mail tried to contact Air Asia for comment but was told they had no media department and there was “nobody” who could provide comment on Mr Darch’s situation.