Advertisement

Crowe angry after Virgin denies travel with hoverboards

Actor Russell Crowe has unleashed his frustration with Virgin Australia via social media, after the airline stopped him taking Segway boards on a flight.

“Ridiculous @VirginAustralia. No Segway boards as luggage? Too late to tell us at airport. Kids and I offloaded. Goodbye Virgin. Never again,” he tweeted.

His tweet indicates the family did not follow through travelling on the flight.

The Northern Territory’s pub with no beer
The sex disease that could soon be indestructible
• Why adopting a dog could make men sexier

Segway boards, also known as hoverboards, have been a popular toy this Christmas, but many major airlines have been concerned about the safety of the gadgets, and consequently banned them from flights.

Over seven tweets, the airline responded to Crowe’s anger.

“Hi Russell, due to safety concerns over the lithium ion batteries in hoverboards, these have been banned on all major … Australian airlines and many around the world. We’re sorry you were not aware of this prior to check in today. We … hope to see you on board again soon.”

Crowe replied: “Why did you not inform me when I booked my ticket? Where is your duty of responsibility in this?”

The airline again responded, saying the relevant information is outlined in the Dangerous Goods section in the booking conformation and check-in reminder emails.

It added it had communicated the message via its social media platforms and the media.

Comedian and television personality Joel Creasy also got involved, tweeting to Crowe: “You’re a millionaire, babe. Get some perspective. Enjoy Tiger. They don’t even have real pilots x.”

Crowe replied: “I’m a father Joel, with two kids at an airport, trying to start our holiday.”

Earlier this month, it was reported after an ACCC investigation and retailer recall, Qantas was also taking a stand against the popular product.

The ACCC said the cord set and the battery charger did not comply with Australian standards. The body also said there was a potential for electric shock.

The ban includes two-wheeled hoverboards, airboards, smart scooters, mini Segways as well as single-wheeled uni-wheels and air-wheels.

Flight Safety Australia, the news website of the Australian Civil Aviation Authority, also reported airlines were reviewing their policies on carrying hoverboards.

The International Air Transport Association recommends “operators restrict these devices to carry-on luggage,” Flight Safety Australia said.

Virgin Australia has been contacted by the ABC for comment.

Screen Shot 2015-12-29 at 8.10.38 pm

Advertisement
Stay informed, daily
A FREE subscription to The New Daily arrives every morning and evening.
The New Daily is a trusted source of national news and information and is provided free for all Australians. Read our editorial charter.
Copyright © 2024 The New Daily.
All rights reserved.