I don't for a second believe he was running around disruptively. Even thin children with DS have difficulty running much due to problems with low muscle tone and problems with balance. He is not thin and would have an even harder time with running. She said he is mentally like a 4-5 year old. Physically I guarantee not at all. He probably is only about as strong as a seven year old. I think the most likely explanation is that someone was creeped out and the agent tried to make that person happy not thinking that there would be resistance. They then came up with a story to defend their decision. Hopefully someday they will have an opportunity to get to know someone with DS and have a change of heart.
Originally Posted by
mgchan
While it's certainly possible at someone just complained I would think it would have to be a very important person for the airline to remove the family if the boy was just sitting there quietly.
From what I've read e airline claims the kid was running around. I read a quote that the mom said he was acting no different from a 4-5 year old kid (not sure about this though). If that's the case, I could understand a determination that a large 16 year old acting like a 4-5 year old, particularly if running around, would pose a risk.
Yes, I understand the story says the kid was sitting quietly, very calm, a model citizen, and a frequent flier. But consider the source, a family who has apparently already said they plan on suing.
Yes, airlines need to be cognizant of those with disabilities and doubtless have a long way to go. But is doesn't extend indefinitely. If this was a drunk 26 year old who was acting like a 4-5 year old, running around and causing a scene, removed from the flight despite his friends saying that he would just fall asleep once he gets a snack, would anyone complain?