Virgin Australia rejects ‘unsubstantiated assertion’ that it turned a blind eye to staff safety risks

Virgin Australia has categorically rejected what it says is an “unsubstantiated assertion that it turned a blind eye to safety risks”, following a News Corp report that it had not fully addressed the behaviour of young cabin crew.

“Safety is our highest priority. This includes a thorough and proactive approach to ensure the welfare of our crew when travelling for work, both domestically and internationally,” the airline said in a statement.

The news follows charges being laid against a 24-year-old Fijian man who faced a magistrates court in Nadi, Fiji, on January 6 over the alleged rape and sexual assault of a Virgin Australia crew member.

Ilaisa Tanoa Degei is accused of raping the 21-year-old Melbourne woman, who was in Fiji over New Year’s Eve as a crew member of a Virgin Australia flight during a layover.

He was denied bail during his appearance in court and is due to appear in the High Court in Lautoka today.

That incident was followed up in a News Corp report that said Virgin management travelled to Bali to monitor crew members after a spate of flight cancellations and claims staff were too intoxicated or failing to turn up to work. The report used personal Instagram posts of staff who it said “some of whom moonlight as influencers”, implying some inappropriate behaviours, but captioning the numerous images with the caveat: “It is not suggested any of the staff pictured have engaged in any inappropriate conduct such as drinking alcohol while at work or absenteeism.”

The News Corp report said Virgin Australia internal investigations into the incidents uncovered possible drink spiking and food poisoning. It also said Virgin management was considering disciplinary action against crew members.

But Virgin Australia said it had taken all appropriate measures to ensure the safety of its staff.

“All reported safety incidents are promptly reviewed, and we do not hesitate to implement necessary changes and controls to ensure our team remain safe,” it said in the statement.