Southern Airways Faces Backlash After Denying Boarding to Disabled Actress Marissa Bode
Marissa Bode, an actress known for her role in 'Wicked,' has publicly criticized Southern Airways for denying her boarding due to her disability. Bode, who uses a wheelchair, recounted her experience on TikTok, explaining that she was unable to board a connecting flight because the airline's planes require passengers to ascend stairs, which she cannot do. Despite her manager confirming with the airline beforehand that accommodations would be made, Bode was told at the gate that she could not board. Southern Airways' current policy states that their aircraft, which hold 28 or fewer passengers, are not required to provide mechanical lift devices under the Air Carrier Access Act. Following the incident, the director of Southern Airways' mobility department reached out to Bode, expressing regret and indicating that the airline would review its policies. 
