Virgin Australia is being sued by a teenage passenger who sustained serious burns after hot coffee was spilled during a flight last year.
The 16-year-old boy, Rhett Butler, from southeastern Australia, was traveling on a Virgin Australia flight from Los Angeles International Airport to Sydney in May 2015 when the accident occurred.
Shortly after takeoff, a cabin crew member carrying a tray of hot drinks dropped it onto Butler’s lap. The boy reportedly suffered burns, blisters and scarring to his thighs, groin, genital area and midriff.
According to the lawsuit, Butler’s father, Brian Butler, provided medical assistance on board because the flight crew did not offer adequate help. The airline has confirmed it has been served with the lawsuit but is not releasing further details.
“Virgin Australia takes the safety and comfort of our passengers extremely seriously. Given this matter has not yet been resolved, it would not be appropriate to comment further,” a Virgin Australia spokesperson said in a statement.