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During the holiday travel season, a passenger’s frustration with Alaska Airlines staff became a viral sensation. Alexandra Compton, known as ‘Two Cats Karen,’ was attempting to board a flight from Las Vegas to Portland, Oregon, with her two cats. When airline agents informed her that the pet policy required each cat to be in a separate carrier, Compton responded with dramatic anger and disbelief.
The incident, captured on video and shared widely on social media, highlighted not only Compton’s personal outburst but also the challenges of traveling with pets. Many holiday travelers experience tight spaces and restrictions, making Compton’s situation resonate with those facing similar difficulties during their journeys.
Understanding the airline’s pet policy
Alaska Airlines has specific regulations regarding pet travel to ensure the safety and comfort of animals onboard. According to the airline’s guidelines, up to two pets of the same species can travel in the same carrier, provided they are of similar size and can fit comfortably without distress. This policy aims to prevent harm to the animals and maintain a peaceful cabin environment.
Compton’s reaction to the policy
When confronted with the airline’s policy, Compton expressed outrage and demanded to see the specific regulations that applied to her situation. “Why are you ruining Christmas?” she exclaimed, voicing her frustration at the staff. Despite calm explanations from employees, Compton’s anger escalated as she insisted she had traveled with her cats without issue before.
The staff member reiterated that the concern was not the cats’ weight, but their need for adequate space and movement. The airline’s representative explained that both cats required separate containers to ensure their comfort and well-being during the flight.
The fallout from the incident
The video of Compton’s outburst gained significant traction on platforms like TikTok, receiving over 222,000 likes. Many viewers shared their thoughts, with some sympathizing with her while others criticized her reaction. The viral nature of the video sparked ongoing discussions about airline pet policies, especially during peak travel times.
Resolution and Compton’s follow-up
Ultimately, Compton was required to purchase a second pet carrier and rebook her flight for a later departure. In a subsequent social media post, she expressed her frustration, stating, “They made me leave the airport, buy a second pet carrier, and a second seat for the second cat.” Her comments reflected growing dissatisfaction with customer service and the challenges of navigating airline policies.
Her final words in the post were pointed: “F—k Alaska Airlines, their ‘policies’ and lack of customer service. I hope you all get coal for Christmas.” This dramatic conclusion to her travel experience resonated with many who feel similarly constrained by airline regulations.
As the holiday season continues, stories like Compton’s remind travelers of the complexities involved in bringing pets along and the importance of understanding airline policies in advance. With the rise of pet travel, it is crucial for passengers to be well-informed about regulations to avoid potential conflicts at the airport.