Passengers arriving at JFK Airport on a Virgin Atlantic flight from London were met with a nauseating surprise—luggage coated in a foul-smelling brown liquid that many described as human waste. Multiple passengers took to social media and news outlets to express their horror, claiming their bags were covered in what looked and smelled like “poop and pee.”
Videos from the baggage claim area quickly went viral, showing suitcases dripping with sludge and parents shielding their children from the mess. Some travelers said the odor was unbearable, calling the scene a “biohazard.”
Virgin Atlantic has since responded, strongly denying that the waste came from one of their aircrafts. Instead, they’re pointing fingers at JFK Airport, claiming a broken pipe in the baggage handling system is to blame.
“We understand this was a deeply unpleasant experience,” a Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said. “We are working with the airport authorities to investigate and ensure this doesn’t happen again.” The airline also stated the substance was not human waste and did not originate from their plane’s lavatory system.
Despite the airline’s denial, many passengers remain unconvinced. Several are exploring legal options, demanding compensation not only for damaged luggage but also for exposure to potentially harmful substances. Some say the airline did little to help at the time—offering no gloves, sanitizer, or immediate assistance.
Virgin Atlantic says they are now issuing reimbursements, covering cleaning costs, and offering compensation in the form of air miles.
