Woman's $1.5M Lawsuit Claims She Was Scolded By Hot Water During JetBlue Flight

Tahjana Lewis is suing JetBlue Airlines over “disfiguring burns” she allegedly suffered from spilled hot water served for tea during flight turbulence.

Lewis’ lawsuit reportedly claims that the hot water splashed onto her while it was being served to another passenger near her. The filing alleges that the liquid was at a temperature “unreasonably and dangerously hot.” The alleged victim reportedly suffered second and third-degree burns on five parts of her body. According to ABC News, the injuries were on her right arm, chest, bosom, legs, and backside.

A graphic photo documented burns that grazed the whole area of Lewis’ chest. On the scalded area of her dark skin are patches of hyperpigmentation and raw, pink flesh.

USA Today detailed that the May 15 incident occurred on Flight 2237 from Orlando, Florida to Hartford, Connecticut. Lewis was reportedly traveling with her family. She claims the airline didn’t “administer first aid” during the flight and that onboard crew members said she’d received medical attention upon landing.

What Else Is There To Know About Tahjana Lewis’ Lawsuit Against JetBlue?

The “fasten seatbelt” sign went on mid-flight due to turbulence, but the flight crew allegedly continued with its beverage service.

The plaintiff claims JetBlue was “careless” for serving such hot liquid during turbulence. Her suit asserted that the carrier didn’t do its job of offering “reasonably safe travel conditions.”

Lewis is suing for damages regarding her injuries. The alleged victim says her ability to work is limited and that she’s been left “sore and partially disabled.” She also claims to have suffered emotional trauma from the incident, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Her lawyer, Edward A. Jazlowiecki, claims Lewis might need skin grafting for her injuries.

“That’s something they [JetBlue] shouldn’t have done,” Jazlowiecki told USA Today. “This is a serious issue for them.”

“Absolutely gross negligence,” the attorney added in another statement. “[JetBlue] should have done something to assuage [Lewis’] pain,” he additionally argued, later claiming that the airline “didn’t offer her much help until she got off the plane.”