Pregnant influencer

Dominique Elissa, 31, an Australian model expecting her first child, shared her travel experience on the Big Small Talk podcast.

Flight attendant refusal

A flight attendant refused to help her put her four kilogram carry-on luggage in the overhead bin despite her pregnancy.

Pregnancy injury

Elissa explained she previously injured herself while attempting to lift the bag due to her pregnancy.

Flight attendant response

The flight attendant stated she could not help because she was unable to lift the bag above her head.

“If you can’t lift...he didn’t lift it up. He goes, 'I can’t help you, sorry'. He said, 'I can’t help you'. It was a man.”

Elissa's reaction

Elissa felt shocked and called for help from a stranger next to her after the flight attendant refused.

“Well, I’m actually pregnant; I’d really appreciate it if you could help me because last time I injured myself.”

Public response

Online comments suggested cabin crew are not responsible for lifting bags regardless of passenger situation.

“It is actually not their job to lift bags, regardless of your situation.”

CAA guidance

The Civil Aviation Authority states cabin crew should avoid lifting carry-on baggage but may assist if necessary.

“Cabin crew 'should provide minimal assistance with passenger carry-on baggage and encourage passengers to stow their own baggage'.”