You Won't Believe Why This Woman Had to Change Clothes on a Flight
The average traveler rarely puts much effort into airport style. Comfy and easy enough to make it through the security line is common travel outfit criteria. But one JetBlue flight passenger was almost denied her seat on a flight to Seattle because of the length of her shorts.
Maggie McMuffin, a burlesque dancer, is calling the airline out for body shaming after she was told her clothing choice was inappropriate and offensive to passengers aboard the flight. Maggie donned black and white striped shorts, knee-high socks, and a graphic sweater to the airport. She told ABC News that flight crew members refused her service because her shorts were too skimpy. Maggie boarded the plane with only one outfit in tow, and tried to reach a compromise with the flight crew, suggesting that she tie a sweater around her waist or even use a blanket while on flight. But in turn, she was told by staffers if she didn't change her outfit, she would be prohibited from entering the aircraft.
As a result, Maggie ended up purchasing "appropriate" shorts at an airport kiosk, and was then able to join the flight. Since the incident, Maggie is holding the airline liable of body shaming, slut shaming, and sexism. However, JetBlue stands by their decision to refuse Maggie service due to her outfit. They released a statement to ABC News stating:
"We support our crew members' discretion to make these difficult decisions, and we decided to reimburse the customer for the cost of the new shorts and offered a credit for future flight as a goodwill gesture."
Maggie believes that instead of offering flight credit, JetBlue should implement sensitivity training for flight members, or provide clear guidelines for passengers. Other airlines have previously enforced dress code standards on their websites. Hawaiian Airlines and Zed Fare Tickets both have clothing standards in place and ask that guests cover up their legs and torsos. Swimsuits, mini skirts, and any other clothing items considered provocative are also prohibited on these airlines. And for safety reasons, footwear must be worn at all times — no exceptions.
Since her dress code encounter, Maggie's story has gone viral, prompting a larger discussion on body shaming and misogyny. While the company has issued an apology, she says that no statement can remove the embarrassment she experienced as a result of JetBlue's request. Scroll through for more details on Maggie's experience.