Virgin Australia Apologises to Disability Advocate Over Wheelchair 2026

Virgin Australia apologises to disability advocate Shane Hryhorec after he was removed from a flight over his wheelchair motor. The airline issued a formal apology on Wednesday, two days after Hryhorec's viral video highlighted the incident. This event has sparked widespread discussion about how airlines handle mobility devices and the rights of passengers with disabilities.

The Incident That Sparked Outrage

Shane Hryhorec, who lives with C5 incomplete quadriplegia, uses a wheelchair with a power assist device called a SmartDrive. During a flight from Sydney, staff instructed him to store the motor under the seat, despite there being no space to secure it. Hryhorec had already flown three times with Virgin Australia the previous week without issue, but this time crew members insisted on different handling.

In the video, which has amassed 16 million views on TikTok and Instagram, staff can be heard telling him that previous crews “have done the wrong thing then, just to accommodate you.” One crew member even asked him to delete the videos he had taken. He was subsequently removed from the flight, leaving him feeling “humiliated” and frustrated.

Virgin Australia's Apology and Response

After two phone calls that did not include an apology, Hryhorec finally received a sincere apology on Wednesday. The airline released a statement saying, “We sincerely apologise to Mr Shane Hryhorec following his recent experience. We regret what occurred and acknowledge that we did not meet our own standards in how we handled this situation.”

Hryhorec expressed mixed feelings about the apology, noting that while it was good to hear them take ownership, he felt the pressure of public backlash forced their hand. “You want them to make change, not because of the brand damage, but because it’s the right thing to do,” he told Guardian Australia.

Key Timeline of Events

Implications for Airline Accessibility

This incident highlights a broader issue: many airlines lack clear, consistent policies for handling mobility devices like power assist motors. Passengers with disabilities often face unpredictable treatment, which can lead to anxiety and discrimination. The aviation industry must adopt standardized procedures that respect the dignity and independence of all travelers.

According to disability advocates, airlines should train staff on the proper handling of assistive devices and ensure that equipment can be safely stored without compromising passenger safety. Clear communication and flexibility are essential to avoid situations like this one.

Key Takeaways for Airlines and Passengers

• Airlines must provide consistent, respectful treatment for passengers with disabilities.
• Mobility devices should be accommodated according to manufacturer guidelines, not arbitrary crew decisions.
• Passengers have the right to record interactions if they feel their safety or rights are being violated.
• Public pressure can drive accountability, but systemic change requires proactive policy updates.

What This Means for Future Flights

Virgin Australia has not yet announced specific policy changes, but the apology suggests a willingness to review procedures. Hryhorec hopes that his experience will lead to better training and awareness. For other airlines, this serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of accessibility and the potential reputational damage of mishandling such situations.

As the travel industry evolves, inclusivity must become a core priority. Passengers with disabilities deserve the same ease and comfort as anyone else when flying. This incident is a reminder that there is still much work to be done.

FAQ

This incident serves as a powerful reminder that accessibility is not just a courtesy but a fundamental right. Airlines must act proactively to ensure that all passengers are treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their physical abilities.

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