Travellers have vowed to ‘boycott’ Wizz Air over a policy that means Ukrainian refugees fleeing the country can not travel onboard their flights with their pets. The airline has been supporting those escaping the Russian invasion by offering free seats on flights departing Ukraine to border countries such as Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania.
In regards to their policy on allowing pets on board the flights the airline tweeted to apologise that refugees would not be able to bring their animals with them. The airline tweeted: “We’re more than sorry for the inconvenience. We allow only guide and assistance dogs on board at no additional cost. No other animals or pets can travel on Wizz Air flights. The general carriage rules for assistance dogs apply.”
Many unhappy social media users vented their anger at the policy online, one said: “Whilst admirable offering free flights, why would you then make a refugee abandon the one thing they chose to save when leaving their homes for safety?! Surely secure pets are no more a risk than a baby on a lap??! Make exceptions, it’s not hard!”
READ MORE:‘They shot in the air and pushed me back from the train’ says Black student fleeing Ukraine as London brother tries to help miles away
One unhappy user tweeted: “Wizzair you are a disgrace.”
Another Twitter user said: “OMG what is the mentality here. People’s pets are like their children / family. COME ON.”
One user pleaded: “Come on Wizzair, the Ukrainians have left everything behind, these pets are their ONLY valuable possession. Don’t fail them please.”
Do you want to stay up to date with the latest news, views, features and opinion from across the city?
MyLondon’s brilliant newsletter The 12 is absolutely jam packed with all the latest to keep you keep you entertained, informed and uplifted.
You’ll get 12 stories straight to your inbox at around 12pm. It’s the perfect lunchtime read.
And what’s more – it’s FREE!
The MyLondon team tells London stories for Londoners. Our journalists cover all the news you need – from City Hall to your local streets, so you’ll never miss a moment.
Don’t skip a beat and sign up to The 12 newsletter here.
Many users vowed to ‘boycott’ the airline, one said: “Certainly @wizzair I will never fly with your airline for the rest of my life if you do not change your absurd and cruel policy immediately . These people are fleeing war and saving their animals as well. Show some care and respect now #Ukraine.”
Another similarly tweeted: “Let’s boycott @wizzair DO NOT fly with them. Until they allow Ukrainians pets onboard as well. What are they doing with the animals???”
A third similarly said: “How heartless! These people have lost everything & you’re making them leave their beloved pets too. Shame on you! Boycott @wizzair #StandWithUkraine.”
MyLondon has contacted Wizz Air for comment.
Do you want the latest London travel, crime or transport news straight to your inbox? It only takes a few seconds! Click here.
