NGO Condemns Removal of Blind Passengers from HK Express Flight as Insulting, Offensive
Despite Equality Body’s Non-Discriminatory Ruling
Hong Kong, 29 September 2023 – The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) has ruled that the removal of two blind passengers from a Hong Kong Express plane on 22 September was not discriminatory, but a disability rights advocacy group has condemned the decision as insulting and offensive.
The incident occurred when the two passengers, who were booked to travel from Hong Kong to Taipei, were told by HK Express staff that they would not be allowed to board the plane because they were blind.
The passengers, who have been identified only as Mr. Wong and Ms. Chan, said they were humiliated and embarrassed by the incident.
We felt like we were being treated like second-class citizens, Mr. Wong said.
It was a very degrading experience, Ms. Chan added.
HK Express has since apologized for the incident, but the EOC’s ruling has angered disability rights advocates.
The Hong Kong Blind Union (HKBU) said the ruling was a slap in the face for blind people.
The EOC’s decision sends a message that it is acceptable to discriminate against blind people, HKBU chairman Anthony Wong said.
This is a very dangerous precedent.
The EOC’s ruling is based on the fact that HK Express did not have a policy of discriminating against blind passengers.
However, the EOC also acknowledged that the airline’s staff did not have adequate training on how to deal with blind passengers.
The EOC has recommended that HK Express provide training for its staff on how to deal with passengers with disabilities.
HK Express has said it will comply with the EOC’s recommendations.
The EOC’s ruling is likely to have a number of consequences.
First, it is likely to make it more difficult for blind passengers to travel on HK Express flights.
Second, it is likely to discourage other airlines from providing services to blind passengers.
Third, it is likely to damage Hong Kong’s reputation as a progressive and inclusive city.
The HKBU has called on the government to take action to ensure that blind people are not discriminated against.
The government has said it is considering its options.
In the meantime, the HKBU has urged blind people to boycott HK Express flights.
Kind regards
E. Thompson
