Hi Sam,
sometimes I love to say ' Long time no see' .
The word is now become racial incrimination and no more racial discrimination. However I had a good bet on British Airways over 25 years ago. I was traveling 1st Class via Switzerland to London. I was on the plane with my British partner when we had to board on their transit flight to London. Being a Transit passenger ,we had priority to board first.
About 15 minutes before departure, I heard my name being called over the speaker phone to go to the front door , for an urgent matter. I did not bulge, I immediately figured out that there was something smelling?
The hostess finally came over to my seat . Here is the dialog.
- BA- Excuse me sir, we have a problem?
- Louma- Am I the problem ?
- BA- No sir, but we over booked the flight?
- Louma- Then thats your problem?
- BA- Please this is very urgent, could you come over for a second.
- Louma- Sorry , but please explain what the exact problem is?
- BA- Ok , no listen, There is no place in business class, so we have to downgrade you to economy, we will give you a refund.
- Louma- how did you choose my name?
- BA-Its the computer, not a choice because of your color,if thats what you feel.
- Louma-I am very sorry, I cannot help you. Thanks
- BA---------(looked at me angrily and left without saying a word°
Of course I was the only Black in the first class.
After a few minutes, my friend (who is British) decided to go to the exit to discuss with the Airline management . He finally decided to be downgraded. Excellent I thought. But can you guess who sat next to me?
Cant believe it ! The former Prime Minister of Australia. He was very apologetic for what happened and we exchanged coordinates.
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On the issue of our Nigerian friend who was maltreated by the British Airways, I would say that such stories are common every day. Without Nigeria passengers, British Airways could have gone bankrupt a few years back. The Nigerian market and its surrounding connections constitute over 23 percent of British Airways annual Turnover. That is huge !
Boycotting British Airways is not the best answer . Its addressing the concerns of the People through a National Ban on BA, that should be imposed by the Nigerian Government for at least 2 weeks ,with an option to extend it. If that happens British Airways stock value will drop minimum 7 percent. Thats enough bite to change their attitude.
Tell that young Nigeria, that when he sees an issue like that next time, he shouldn't try to solve it by himself. He should have sat on his seat and say a little Prayer to help that fellow. The Bible Reads ' God is a very present help in trouble'. Use that power , its always available to everyone, poor or rich.
Have a nice time my friend.
Pierre Louma