Human League singer kicked out of airport lounge for wearing Uggs

Woman kicked out of airport lounge for wearing Uggs
Woman kicked out of airport lounge for wearing Uggs

Everybody knows that when you're going on a long-haul plane journey, comfort is key. But, as one traveller found out, comfort isn't always top priority in some airport lounges.

Joanne Catherall, a member of the band The Human League, found this out the hard way when she tried to enter the Qantas business class lounge at Melbourne Airport, but was turned away because she was wearing Uggs. Ok, the shearling-lined boots might not be the last word in fashion but they are super comfortable.

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However, the staff member at the desk deemed them a little too comfy and said they were 'sleepwear'.

Ms Catherall took to Twitter to complain about her experience and wrote:

"Denied access @Qantas business class lounge in @Melair Melbourne Airport apparently Ugg (Australia) Boots are deemed sleepwear by the lady working there although no problem in any of the other lounges so far. Helpfully she suggested I go to one of the shops & purchase some shoes."

The airline actually tweeted Joanna back and defended its stance, also including a link to its Club Lounge dress code.


Many people on Twitter defended Joanne, agreeing that Uggs are not sleepwear.

One wrote: "Sorry... but a $150 to $300 pair of boots is not any sense comparable to a $15 to $40 pair of slippers. Heck if they are slippers, Santa leave me two pairs under my tree please, thanks."

Another wrote: "I had exactly the same issue just last week in Brisbane Airport! If you pay for Business Class you should be able to travel in whatever you feel comfortable in - whatever footwear you choose to wear is not going to ruin other passengers travel experience!"

Qantas still advised that ultimately it was up to the discretion of the staff, tweeting: "Understood Joanne, bear in mind each lounge is subject to the discretion of the team. We'll pass your feedback on so we can improve our services."

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