Influencer Claims Virgin Australia Body-Shamed Her Over Attire

A fitness influencer has accused Virgin Australia of body-shaming after a staff member instructed her to zip up her jacket before boarding a flight, an incident she claims was discriminatory.

Caitlin Lyndon stated that while traveling from Brisbane to Melbourne earlier this month, she was told by a gate agent to cover her cleavage. She was wearing a sports bra with a zip-up jacket left open. Lyndon reported that her friend, who was dressed in the same attire, was not given the same instruction.

Lyndon, who was already feeling emotional from visiting her sick grandmother, described the experience as humiliating and isolating. She questioned whether she was targeted because of her large bust, asking the gate worker if this was the reason, but received what she described as a vague response.

"If they did this to me, it makes you wonder how many other people they have singled out but didn't have the confidence to speak up," Lyndon told the Daily Mail. "Bullying and discrimination on any level is unacceptable and illegal. No woman, no person, should be subjected to this."

Virgin Australia has stated that it has been in direct contact with the customer and has apologized for her experience. A spokesperson for the airline said, "Virgin Australia is committed to treating all guests fairly and respectfully. We take the concerns raised by the guest seriously."

However, Lyndon refuted the airline's statement, claiming she only received an "insincere" message on social media and that her legal team has contacted the airline requesting a formal apology. She also pointed out that neither she nor her friend were asked to cover up when wearing similar gym wear on a previous flight with the airline.

Virgin Australia's published dress code states that passengers must wear footwear, bottoms that cover the lower body, and a top such as a shirt or singlet. Clothing with offensive language or symbols is not permitted, and passengers who do not meet the requirements may be asked to change before flying. The policy does not explicitly mention gym wear or sports bras.