Launceston Airport — Attraction in Tasmania

My recent experience at Launceston Airport security screening presents a concerning contrast between efficiency on arrival and inconsistency on departure. While the initial arrival process was commendable, the return security screening procedures were demonstrably flawed.

The most egregious aspect of the screening involved extensive delays due to a single security officer being assigned to a lengthy line. This resulted in unnecessary congestion, particularly frustrating given the airport's reportedly modest size.

Furthermore, the application of security protocols appeared arbitrary and lacked transparency. Both my wife and mother-in-law were inexplicably singled out and required to remove their boots upon passing through the security scanner. When I inquired about the rationale behind this selective procedure, the security officer remained inexplicably silent. This lack of communication was not only unprofessional but also fostered a sense of unease.

The situation escalated further when I was asked to step aside and was the only passenger subjected to a physical pat-down, right ankle, and my groin... Despite my polite inquiry regarding the justification for this invasive procedure, the security officer again offered no explanation. This left me feeling violated and disrespected, particularly since a simple explanation, such as the scanner requiring a secondary check, would have significantly mitigated...

I am writing to express my disappointment regarding the treatment my partner and I experienced while boarding flight VA1509 on 06-01-2024 at Launceston Airport. The unprofessional conduct of one of the gate agents has left a negative impression and significantly dampened the end of our otherwise enjoyable trip.

Upon arriving at the gate, I explained to the agent that my partner, who had the boarding passes, was in the restroom and would return shortly. Despite this, the agent, a flamboyant Caucasian male with light hair and a beard, responded rudely and unnecessarily escalated the situation. He threatened to close the gate in 30 seconds if my partner did not arrive and immediately radioed to have our bags removed from the plane.

When my partner returned moments later, the agent reluctantly scanned our boarding passes, all the while shaking his head and rushing us toward the plane. To our confusion, there was still a line of passengers waiting to board, making the urgency and his hostility entirely unwarranted.

While I understand the importance of maintaining schedules, the way we were spoken to and treated was unacceptable. Basic courtesy and professionalism were completely absent. I hope this feedback encourages the individual involved, as well as the organization, to adopt a more respectful and considerate approach in the future.

This experience has reflected poorly on both Virgin Airlines and...

worst travel experience

At the bag drop, a blonde staff member forced me to change my pre-selected and paid seats. When I asked multiple times about the payment I made, she ignored me, then finally said there would be a $20 credit—but gave no clear answer. At the boarding gate, when I asked again, she was dismissive and rude, and walked away without responding.

Onboard, another staff member suddenly accused me of swearing at the first staff member—something I absolutely did NOT do. She even claimed to have “two witnesses” and threatened to throw me off the plane. I was humiliated in front of everyone.

To make things worse, my boyfriend’s English ability was questioned unnecessarily, and I couldn’t help but notice that the seats we were moved from were given to white passengers. This left me feeling unsafe, shamed, and discriminated against as an Asian traveler.

I agreed to the seat change and was polite, but I was met with hostility, lies, and threats. Instead of treating passengers with respect, staff chose to pretend not to hear, ignore questions, and intimidate me.

This experience was unacceptable. I strongly urge management to review CCTV footage and take accountability for their staff’s behavior. No passenger should be...