Reed NewsReed News

Two passengers burned by hot tea on Ryanair flights

Accidents & disastersAccidents
Key Points
  • Two passengers suffered second-degree burns from hot tea on separate Ryanair flights.
  • Both alleged inadequate crew response and faulty equipment; Ryanair denied liability.
  • One settlement was reached; the other case may still be ongoing.

Devon Buffoni was injured on a flight from Bordeaux to London Stansted on 30 September 2023, while Susan Martin was burned on a flight from Bournemouth to Malta in May 2024. Both passengers allege inadequate crew response and faulty equipment. Buffoni claimed her tray table was 'not fit for purpose' and that cabin crew lacked basic medical knowledge and were slow to respond.

According to Daily Mirror - Main, Buffoni described being given only one bottle of water and said first aid supplies were insufficient. Martin alleged the tea was scalding because it was made with boiling water from the back of the plane rather than the drinks trolley. According to Daily Mail - Home, Martin said crew applied gel packs and cold water and changed them frequently.

Ryanair denied liability in both cases, with the airline alleging Buffoni knocked the tea into her own lap. Ryanair settled Buffoni's claim for £4,000 without admission of liability. Martin spent the rest of her holiday in hospital and required six weeks of follow-up care after returning to the UK.

The incidents highlight ongoing safety concerns about hot beverage service on aircraft.

Location
Corroborated
Daily Mirror - MainDaily Mail - Home
2 publications · 3 sources
1 contradictions found
View transparency reportReport inaccuracy
Two passengers burned by hot tea on Ryanair flights | Reed News