24 September 2023 , 11:18
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A couple have been compensated by an airliner after complaining they were sat next to a farting support dog during their 13-hour flight. Gill and Warren Press hit out after their journey from Paris to New Zealand was plagued by the pooch's snorting, flatulence, and "saliva goo" deposited all over their legs.
Discussing their experience on board the Singapore Airlines plane, Gill Press explained to Stuff: "I heard this noise – a heavy snorting. I thought it was my husband’s phone, but we looked down and realised it was the dog breathing. I said, 'I’m not having this sitting next to us the whole trip.'"
After alerting cabin crew, however, the couple were told the only alternative was for them to be moved to the economy section. They declined, in the hope the hound would settle, but he continued "farting" for the remainder of the journey. Gill continued: "They couldn’t have the dog out in the aisle because they couldn’t get the trolleys through, so it had to come in further, which meant his head was under my husband’s feet. My husband was in shorts, and was getting the dog’s saliva goo on his leg."
The couple have since revealed they will donate their compensation to a New Zealand charity for guide dogs (Getty Images)Initially the duo were offered NZ $116 [£56] in travel vouchers, but after pushing for a full refund were eventually awarded around $1,410 [£686], which they plan to donate to a New Zealand guide dog charity. Gill later told Insider: "The principal wasn't about the money, it was truly about making people accountable."
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In a statement to LadBible shortly after the incident, Singapore Airlines said: "Singapore Airlines (SIA) apologises to Mr and Mrs Press for their experience on board their flight from Paris to Singapore. SIA endeavours to notify customers who may be seated next to an assistance dog prior to boarding. In circumstances where customers seated next to an assistance dog request to be moved, we will assist to re-seat customers within the same cabin if space permits."