Schoolgirl Receives Compensation for In-Flight Injury

A young girl, aged twelve, has reached a settlement agreement with Ryanair following an incident on a flight where she sustained burns. This settlement, amounting to €30,000, was accepted in addition to covering her legal expenses.

In the Circuit Civil Court, Judge Christopher Callan expressed his hope that this distressing event would not deter Sienna Darcy from future travels, emphasizing the importance of exploring the world.

Representing Sienna, barrister Darach MacNamara provided the court with photographic evidence to illustrate the severity of the burns she suffered on her left hand at the age of seven. Despite the unsettling nature of these images, they were deemed necessary to convey the extent of her injuries.

MacNamara described how Ryanair’s staff responded promptly, using cold water, cooling gel, and Calpol to treat Sienna’s burns. The injury occurred when a “piping hot meal including oil and sauce” spilled onto her hand during the Lourdes to Dublin flight on 12 July 2019. Upon arrival at Dublin Airport, she was promptly taken to a hospital.

Initially, a settlement of €25,000 was deemed insufficient by Judge Michael Walsh earlier in January. The revised offer of €30,000 was subsequently recommended by MacNamara, a proposal that the court found satisfactory.

Sienna, represented by her mother Aideen Darcy, endured serious burns at the time of the incident. However, the wounds healed remarkably well, leaving no scars or lasting impairment. Nevertheless, the psychological impact of the event was acknowledged.

The court was informed that the accident involved a hot pasta meal served on an unstable, extendable seat tray. Sienna required extensive counselling and therapy, supported by a medical report from plastic surgeon Dylan Murray and two psychiatric assessments by consultant Blanaid Gavin.

In written testimony, Mrs. Darcy recounted the traumatic experience, noting her daughter’s intense pain and distress throughout the flight. Upon landing, Sienna was rushed to Temple Street Children’s Hospital, necessitating multiple follow-up visits.

Judge Callan ultimately approved the €30,000 settlement, which included €2,610 for special damages.