Damages awarded after BA flat-bed malfunctions and injures passenger

A woman, who was a "New Club World" business passenger on a flight returning from the USA was left with permanent back injury after her British Airways flat-bed malfunctioned and sprung upwards into her back.

Shortly after take-off the woman put her seat into the flat-bed position so she could get some sleep. Approximately 2.5 hours later she was awoken with a violent jolt and immediate pain around lower back and neck.

An air steward tried attended the lady and confirmed that the seat was broken. Due to no other seats being available she was forced to remaining in the broken seat for the remainder of the flight. This caused considerable pain and discomfort to her spine, neck and shoulder areas.

On returning to the UK the lady has suffered from acute pain as well as restrictive movement in her back. This has resulted in her needing specialist chiropractic treatment and intensive physiotherapy as well as requiring her to give up many activities and pursuits which she previously had enjoyed. It has also impacted her job and the hours she can work whilst experiencing the level of pain she suffers with.

As a result of these injuries, she received just over £44,000 which will cover the further care and treatment she will require.

Under UK law, airlines are strictly liable under the Montreal Convention for any injuries sustained by a passenger in the event of an accident which takes place on board an aircraft.

To find out whether you can make a claim for compensation contact our personal injury department:

• Ring us on 020 7485 8811

• Fill in our online form

• Text LEGAL to 60888