Virgin Australia Apology to Disability Advocate Over Wheelchair Motor 2026

Virgin Australia has apologised to a disability advocate after he was removed from a flight over his wheelchair motor. The airline's apology comes after a viral video showed the incident, sparking widespread criticism and raising questions about accessibility in air travel.

The Incident and the Apology

Shane Hryhorec, an Adelaide-based disability advocate living with C5 incomplete quadriplegia, was removed from a Virgin Australia flight from Sydney. He uses a wheelchair with a power assist device called a SmartDrive. In a video that garnered 16 million views on TikTok and Instagram, Hryhorec can be seen explaining to flight staff that he had already taken three Virgin Australia flights that week without issue. Staff instructed him to store the motor under the seat, but there was no space to secure it. One crew member even suggested that previous crews had “done the wrong thing then, just to accommodate you” and asked him to delete his videos.

The Airline's Response

After two phone calls, Hryhorec finally received an apology on Wednesday. In a statement, Virgin Australia said it “sincerely apologises to Mr Shane Hryhorec following his recent experience” and acknowledged that it “did not meet our own standards in how we handled this situation.” The airline expressed deep regret for the distress and frustration caused.

Why This Matters for Disability Rights

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by passengers with disabilities. Airline accessibility is not just about physical boarding but also about the handling of assistive devices. The SmartDrive is a crucial part of Hryhorec's mobility, and its removal from his wheelchair could leave him stranded. The viral nature of the video forced Virgin Australia to act, but as Hryhorec noted, “You want them to make change, not because of the brand damage, but because it’s the right thing to do.”

Comparison of Airline Policies on Wheelchair Assist Devices

Key Takeaways

• Virgin Australia has issued a formal apology to Shane Hryhorec.
• The incident was captured on video and went viral, prompting the airline to act.
• Disability advocates stress the need for consistent policies and crew training.
• Passengers with disabilities should know their rights and document any issues.
• Airlines must prioritize accessibility over convenience.

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