I boarded a flight (3/18/2024) with Etihad and notified them at the gate and again on board about my severe allergy to tree nuts and peanuts. It was an 8-hour flight that included meals, and I asked for an ingredient breakdown. They did not have one or any allergy information and instead suggested I get off the plane.
An announcement was then made over the tannoy stating, “the plane is being held while a customer is being asked to leave.” I was embarrassed, so I sat down and tried to calm myself down.
I then asked if they could notify other passengers about my allergy. They refused at first, but eventually agreed to notify only the passengers immediately around me. However, the air hostess pointed me out to each person in a very condescending way.
When meals were served, peanuts were given as a snack and the main meal was a cashew nut curry. I was instead given four bananas for the entire 8-hour flight.
I emailed them afterwards explaining what happened and received no response. Appalling service, and I will not be flying with them again.
Important Safety Note from Lianne
With regard to meals, No Nut Traveler recommends bringing your own food- In the US, the FDA has informed me that an ingredient list may appear reassuring while still omitting allergens—including top allergens—leading passengers to a false sense of security. Even airlines which tout safe meal options then have disclaimers about cross contamination- which is a real risk in a huge catering kitchen. I have documented this issue extensively in my investigative reporting for Allergic Living. PLEASE READ: https://www.allergicliving.com/2023/12/21/the-trouble-with-airline-meals-and-food-allergies/
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