The acknowledgement of veterans on flights is not required in Australia, the Naval Association of Australia Port Macquarie Branch president says.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Virgin Australia will seek public input over a plan to offer priority boarding for veterans and recognise them on flights.
The consultation move follows mixed reaction from the public and veterans over the airline’s plan to introduce the US-style measure.
The feedback will inform the airline’s next step.
Naval Association of Australia Port Macquarie Branch president Len Barker said the measure worked in America which had very different customs.
“It’s something that works there but I don’t think it would work here,” he said.
“There is enough recognition for veterans in other ways which are a lot more public than they are in America.”
Mr Barker said the public consultation decision was probably the best way forward.
Port Macquarie RSL Sub-branch president Greg Laird welcomed the airline’s public consultation decision.
He said plan for the airline to acknowledge veterans was a good gesture but he didn’t know how it was going to work.
Virgin Australia’s statement on November 5 outlined its position.
“We are very mindful of the response that our announcement about recognising people who have served in defence has had today,” the statement said.
“It was a gesture genuinely done to pay respects to those who have served our country.
“Over the coming months, we will consult with community groups and our own team members who have served in defence to determine the best way forward.
“If this process determines that public acknowledgement of their service through optional priority boarding or any announcement is not appropriate, then we will certainly be respectful of that.”
What else is making news?
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.