A nurse who sustained severe burns on a Ryanair flight has received a £4,350 out-of-court settlement, describing the outcome as unexpected. Denise Elliott, 63, was on her way to Majorca from Bournemouth with friends when she was served a coffee cup without a lid, as the staff had run out.
Denise, from Southsea, criticized the tray table for not being suitable for holding the cup securely. Legal experts have noted a rise in similar incidents involving holidaymakers due to the design of tray tables on airplanes.
Describing the incident, Denise disputed Ryanair’s claim that she had lied about the lack of lids, stating that witnesses heard the steward admit to the shortage. The coffee spilled on her thighs without her knocking it, attributing the incident to the inadequate tray table design.
Following the accident, Denise had to provide self-care, as she found the onboard staff ill-equipped to assist adequately. Despite requesting appropriate supplies, she was initially given dry paper towels and later surface wipes containing alcohol.
Denise pursued a flight injury claim under the Montreal Convention, represented by Hudgell Solicitors. Ryanair initially denied responsibility but eventually settled for £4,350 before the case went to trial.
Expressing disappointment with Ryanair’s response, Denise emphasized the importance of proper first aid in such situations, especially for vulnerable passengers. Tracy Stansfield, a senior associate solicitor at Hudgell Solicitors, highlighted the need for airlines to address safety concerns promptly.
The Mirror has contacted Ryanair for further comment.