Marissa Bode Denied Boarding on Flight Due to Wheelchair

Marissa Bode, known for her role in the film 'Wicked,' reported being denied boarding on a Southern Airways flight due to her use of a wheelchair, according to a New York Post article. The 25-year-old, who has used a wheelchair since a car crash at age 11, posted on TikTok on Thursday, stating that the denial happened during a layover en route to a speaking engagement in Pennsylvania.

Bode said her initial flight with United Airlines proceeded without issues, but at the gate for the connecting Southern Airways flight, staff asked if she could stand and then denied her boarding upon her response.

the airline staff explained that their planes require passengers to use stairs, and they raised concerns about her 35-pound wheelchair. She noted that her manager had contacted the airline in advance and received assurances that arrangements were in place.

Bode described the experience as involving more than a communication error, emphasizing that her wheelchair is essential to her mobility. She ultimately drove three and a half hours to reach her destination.

The Air Carrier Access Act prohibits airlines from discriminating against passengers with disabilities and requires assistance with boarding. However, Southern Airways' contract of carriage states that passengers must be able to ascend and descend steps due to the design of its smaller aircraft, which carry fewer than 30 passengers.

The airline indicates it is not required under federal law to provide mechanical lifts, though ramps may be available in some cases. Bode's report follows her increased visibility after playing Nessarose in 'Wicked,' released in 2024, where she addressed online criticism related to her character's disability.

Bode stated that flying often presents challenges for her, including issues with her wheelchair or interactions with staff.