Good Charlotte Vs. British Airways

Good Charlotte frontman Joel Madden was left shocked and stunned this past Monday (April 27) when British Airways staff refused to let him board a flight from Chicago's O'Hare airport unless he covered up his tattoos.

"Was just told by a British air person I can't get on the plane until I cover my tatts," wrote the singer on his Twitter page. "I really actually am in shock. He won't let me on the plane until I put long sleeves on."

Madden says an airline representative said his body art would upset other passengers travelling in first class.

"I did end up covering my tats," he said in another update. "It's not my style to cause a scene, I just had a conversation with the BA guy, told him how it was discrimination. I didn't want to miss [the flight] and honestly I was embarrassed all the people were staring and laughing!"

"I still can't believe Brit Air discriminated me for tatts," he added. "Unheard of. The guy was literally disgusted by me. It's not in the rules that I can find. My tatts aren't offensive. I haven't felt this small since the first time i asked Nic [girlfriend Nicole Richie] out."

Should companies be allowed to discriminate against people for having tattoos? Speak your brains below.

Tags: Good Charlotte

Posted by Dan at 03:52PM | April 28, 2009

I think they should have kicked him off on account of his music!

Sxox

Posted by Sarah | April 28, 2009 3:59 PM | Reply to this

no.. this is just another form of discrimination. he paid his money just like the rest of the people in first class did, so they had no right to deny him access just for so-called art on his body.

Posted by becky | April 28, 2009 4:01 PM | Reply to this

Thats disgracefull...its alright for people to go on a plane who....

1) stink of fags
2) are rude and annoy everyone on the plane
3) are so big they take up 2 seats

Posted by Matt Browne | April 28, 2009 4:04 PM | Reply to this

what so next theyl be asking people to wear paper bags on account that their face might upset the other toffs...ridiculus.

Posted by chloe sant | April 28, 2009 4:05 PM | Reply to this

That sucks!
Why is the wider community always discriminating against metal head/rockers/punks/generally anyone with loads of tattoos!

So fucking what if he has arms covered in ink? You don't have to look at them do you! As if someone with tats is going to create more cause for concern than someone who might be carrying this Swine Flu of late...

Posted by Joel | April 28, 2009 4:05 PM | Reply to this

They shouldn't at all, it's punishing someone for being themselves, There's too much of that in society today, People really need a wake up call.

Posted by Leanne | April 28, 2009 4:05 PM | Reply to this

what so next theyl be asking people to wear paper bags on account that their face might upset the other toffs...ridiculus.

Posted by chloe sant | April 28, 2009 4:05 PM | Reply to this

what so next theyl be asking people to wear paper bags on account that their face might upset the other toffs...ridiculus.

Posted by chloe sant | April 28, 2009 4:05 PM | Reply to this

i cant beilive that they discriminated joel for having body art! he paid good money like everyone else on 1st class!
how the hell could his tats upset anyone!
people these days are sooo rude!!
this is soo stupid!

Posted by Emma | April 28, 2009 4:06 PM | Reply to this

what so next theyl be asking people to wear paper bags on account that their face might upset the other toffs...ridiculus.

Posted by chloe sant | April 28, 2009 4:07 PM | Reply to this

what so next theyl be asking people to wear paper bags on account that their face might upset the other toffs...ridiculus.

Posted by chloe sant | April 28, 2009 4:07 PM | Reply to this

If a member of the flight had actually complained, then I guess the argument would come from a different angle - but even in that case, no one is making anyone look at his tattoos, and it's illegal to discriminate against appearance. He paid his money for his ticket just like everyone else on that flight. The air stewards must have forgotten that it's the passengers that pay their wages, tattooed or not. No one should be made to feel embarassed due to their tattoos.

Posted by Rosie | April 28, 2009 4:07 PM | Reply to this

that's kinda ridiculous!

Posted by zoe | April 28, 2009 4:08 PM | Reply to this

Posted by Rosie | April 28, 2009 4:09 PM | Reply to this

It's bullshit.
Everyone always finds something to discriminate the "Alternative" culture about. Weather, it be fashion, piercings or tattoos.
It's crap.
Why can't they just let us be? We're hardley doing anything thats harming people, are we?

Posted by Deatherella. | April 28, 2009 4:09 PM | Reply to this

I think this is aweful. He should have refused & should take this further. If BA don't want certain people flying with them then they should specify.
I also don't understand how at this time in life people can find tattoos offensive. The art of tattooing has come a long way & is more acceptable these days.
I think BA need a massive kick up the fucking arse & someone to challenge this. SUE THEIR ARSE I SAY!

Posted by hannah | April 28, 2009 4:09 PM | Reply to this

I don't even like GC but this is just the biggest pile of wank ever, not allowed on a plane because of his tattoo's is unbelieveable. British Airways need to sort out there prioritys, they should be more concerned on not letting terrorists on planes then some guy with ink on his arms?!

Posted by Joey | April 28, 2009 4:09 PM | Reply to this

how stupid! seriously. i thought it was bad that if you dye your hair an unnatural colour, have facial piercings or tattoos, you are less likely to get a job but to refuse someone onto an aeroplane!? its absolutely rediculous!

Posted by aimee aye | April 28, 2009 4:10 PM | Reply to this

OMG thats so stupid, they should not have done that, unless someone has reali abusive tattoos then that mey be ok but any other case its stupid.
tattooed ppl are not diferent we are just like everyone else but we like to have tattoos.

if ppl are abusive, drunk or stink of fags or anything nasty then yeh stop them going on.

hate people that discriminate people with tattoos.

loves x

Posted by lee | April 28, 2009 4:10 PM | Reply to this

first class is for people who can afford it, not for a certain description of person.
so just because you express yourself on your skin means you cant enjoy comfort on a flight even though you have the money to.?!?!?!?!
makes no sense!
anyone ever did that to me id just turn around n say "sorry but your face offends me, cover that up. bitch" ahahaha

Posted by Amber | April 28, 2009 4:12 PM | Reply to this

I think it is ridiculous how they asked him to cover his tattoos cause it could upset other passengers, how niave do they think people are! Although you have to respect his decision to cover them up and not throw a big 'I'M A ROCKSTAR' strop.

Posted by Lee Oz | April 28, 2009 4:13 PM | Reply to this

to be honest i think this is stereotypical. and it doesn't matter what other people think he has the right to express his own opinions through art.

Posted by stephanie breckon | April 28, 2009 4:15 PM | Reply to this

Short Answer: No
Long Answer: No

Posted by Gavinge | April 28, 2009 4:15 PM | Reply to this

I personally don't like the guy, nor much of his music but I feel for him here. It's a pathetic attempt by BA to keep their snobbish business appeal by refusing to allow him on.

If his tattoos offend someone, then maybe they should stop looking. If I was him I'd have covered up, got on the plane, then gone topless to be honest.

Posted by Greg Surtees | April 28, 2009 4:16 PM | Reply to this

This is the stupidest thing I've heard in a while. He paid just like everybody else to fly on first class, and if they don' like it they can always look away. People these days...

Posted by Naomi Dixon | April 28, 2009 4:17 PM | Reply to this

this is ridiculous!, you may as well discriminate because of religion, its personal choice, maybe they shouldn't be as easily offended, its his choice not the airlines

Posted by Dom | April 28, 2009 4:17 PM | Reply to this

thats a massive pile of wank that,you wouldnt ask someone to cover up a birthmark because it might affend people.
he payed the money like everyone else,
hows about british airwaves focus on important things like terrorism.
eesh wankers.

Posted by losh | April 28, 2009 4:17 PM | Reply to this

my mum said; yes cos they are disgusting.
personally as BA customer i dont think they should have said anything because at the end of the day its his choice and his way of expressing himself.

Posted by lemonjelly(: | April 28, 2009 4:17 PM | Reply to this

thats a massive pile of wank that,you wouldnt ask someone to cover up a birthmark because it might affend people fair enough thats a natural thing.
he payed the money like everyone else,
hows about british airwaves focus on important things like terrorism.
eesh wankers.

Posted by losh | April 28, 2009 4:17 PM | Reply to this

my mum said; yes cos they are disgusting.
personally as BA customer i dont think they shouldnt have said anything because at the end of the day its his choice and his way of expressing himself.

Posted by lemonjelly(: | April 28, 2009 4:18 PM | Reply to this

my mum said; yes cos they are disgusting.
personally as BA customer i dont think they shouldnt have said anything because at the end of the day its his choice and his way of expressing himself.

Posted by lemonjelly(: | April 28, 2009 4:18 PM | Reply to this

My work makes me cover up my hair colour =( which sucks. I have to use black hair spray to cover up the coloured bits !

Posted by Smarky | April 28, 2009 4:19 PM | Reply to this

This is the stupidest thing I've heard in a while. He paid just like everybody else to fly on first class, and if they don' like it they can always look away. People these days...

Posted by Naomi Dixon | April 28, 2009 4:21 PM | Reply to this

I personally don't like the guy, nor much of his music but I feel for him here. It's a pathetic attempt by BA to keep their snobbish business appeal by refusing to allow him on.

If his tattoos offend someone, then maybe they should stop looking. If I was him I'd have covered up, got on the plane, then gone topless to be honest.

Posted by Greg Surtees | April 28, 2009 4:21 PM | Reply to this

This is the stupidest thing I've heard in a while. He paid just like everybody else to fly on first class, and if they don' like it they can always look away. People these days...

Posted by Naomi Dixon | April 28, 2009 4:22 PM | Reply to this

Come on how silly is that!
how far have things gone now!
this is just stupid now!!
yeah tattoos arent everybody's thing? but at the end of the day it doesnt make him any different! its art? cant people see that??

my life!!! seriously cant belive how stupid that is!
they should worry about important things not what someones got on there skin?

Posted by Todd | April 28, 2009 4:24 PM | Reply to this

hes a dick anyway

Posted by peter | April 28, 2009 4:25 PM | Reply to this

hes a dick anyway

Posted by peter | April 28, 2009 4:26 PM | Reply to this

hes a dick anyway

Posted by peter | April 28, 2009 4:26 PM | Reply to this

hes a dick anyway

Posted by peter | April 28, 2009 4:26 PM | Reply to this

hes a dick anyway

Posted by peter | April 28, 2009 4:26 PM | Reply to this

hes a dick anyway

Posted by peter | April 28, 2009 4:26 PM | Reply to this

omfg!!! that is the stupidist thing i've ever heard... us british are really wierd

Posted by Danni | April 28, 2009 4:26 PM | Reply to this

this is ridiculous!, you may as well discriminate because of religion, its personal choice, maybe they shouldn't be as easily offended, its his choice not the airlines

Posted by Dom | April 28, 2009 4:28 PM | Reply to this

It's absolutely pathetic that they made him cover up his tattoos!

He paid just like all the other assholes flying firstclass so he shouldn't have been told to cover them up!
If people didn't like them they could have turned their heads!

Companys and their cerain policies these days are screwed up!

Posted by Lee | April 28, 2009 4:28 PM | Reply to this

It's absolutely pathetic that they made him cover up his tattoos!

He paid just like all the other assholes flying firstclass so he shouldn't have been told to cover them up!
If people didn't like them they could have turned their heads!

Companys and their cerain policies these days are screwed up!

Posted by Lee | April 28, 2009 4:28 PM | Reply to this

Thats just gay and a gay band too

Posted by INSANITY | April 28, 2009 4:29 PM | Reply to this

I personally don't like the guy, nor much of his music but I feel for him here. It's a pathetic attempt by BA to keep their snobbish business appeal by refusing to allow him on.

If his tattoos offend someone, then maybe they should stop looking. If I was him I'd have covered up, got on the plane, then gone topless to be honest.

Posted by Greg Surtees | April 28, 2009 4:31 PM | Reply to this

This really is stupid...
Its not as if he works for BA

BA should give him a full refund now :]
and fire the idiot who told him to cover his tattoo's up

Posted by Angharad | April 28, 2009 4:36 PM | Reply to this

OMG! That is just completely stupid, it's rediculious. If people don't like them then they shouldn't look.

Posted by Paige | April 28, 2009 4:40 PM | Reply to this

I would only agree with that if someone had something really obscene tattooed all over them. Other then that though it is deffinitely not ok!

If I payed all that money for a first class ticket I'd expect to be allowed on in a monkey suit if I wished!

Posted by Gabbi | April 28, 2009 4:41 PM | Reply to this

That is really stupid. What next? Are people with facial piercings going to be forced to cover up their face in fear of upsetting some prude in first class? It's ridiculous.
I myself have no tattoos but wouldn't be upset by the sight of them. I personally love tattoos, I think they tell facinating stories as long as they have significant meaning. If someone is that upset by someone else's body art of piercings then look away. No one's forcing these passengers to look at Joel are they?

Posted by Tasha | April 28, 2009 4:43 PM | Reply to this

Noo! I can't believe BA discriminated Joel for only having tattoos! && Why would anybody else on thaa plane be bothered?? It's not like thaa tatoos were gonna kill them or something

Jeeeeeeez

Serayna_:)

Posted by Serayna | April 28, 2009 4:52 PM | Reply to this

omg! never flying with BA again! thats total bullshit, its made me feel inclined to go get a million more tattoos, to show that they dont make you dangerous, just more individual

Posted by Esther | April 28, 2009 4:55 PM | Reply to this

I'm sure there is a dress code for first class. So he was probably in the wrong. Its like your not allowed to wear trainers into some posh bars.

Get off your high horses everyone. I bet he is exaggerating.

Posted by Tom | April 28, 2009 4:56 PM | Reply to this

To be honest, if they're gonna through you af a plane for having tattoos because they think they're unpleasant to look at, that's kind of on the same level as throwing someone off a plane for having a horrible disfigurement or for, oh I don't know... being black!

Posted by raz naz | April 28, 2009 4:57 PM | Reply to this

They should have let him fly. Tattoos and peircings mean people are immensley judged for no reason.
I have many pericings and I always get stared at and my boyfriend has a sleeves and people are always looking at us like we're something from a horror movie.
It's pathetic!
Body art is becoming more popular as they days go on, people need to stop being so closed mind

Posted by Joey | April 28, 2009 4:58 PM | Reply to this

I'm by no means a Good Charlotte fan but noone has the right to discriminate against others. No matter what you look like.

It's not like he went on dressed in a white robe with a big pointy hood saying racist slogans. Theyre just bloody tattoos

Posted by Dudelad | April 28, 2009 4:59 PM | Reply to this

Posted by Joey | April 28, 2009 4:59 PM | Reply to this

I think it is ridiculous, people should be allowed to show their tattoos off if they want, poor Joel, it really is like the video of lifestyles of the rich and the famous.

Posted by hannah cartlidge | April 28, 2009 5:06 PM | Reply to this

I think it is ridiculous, people should be allowed to show their tattoos off if they want, poor Joel, it really is like the video of lifestyles of the rich and the famous.

Posted by hannah cartlidge | April 28, 2009 5:06 PM | Reply to this

I think it is ridiculous, people should be allowed to show their tattoos off if they want, poor Joel, it really is like the video of lifestyles of the rich and the famous.

Posted by hannah cartlidge | April 28, 2009 5:06 PM | Reply to this

Thats Really Tight! Joel's done nothing wrong, none of his tattoo's are actually offensive at all and it's just wrong that they'd say such a thing to Joel. How could Tattoo's "upset" other passengers? They don't have to look if it's going to upset them! People are worrying about "upsetting Passengers" when they should be worrying about more important issues Like the swine Flu!

Posted by Marina | April 28, 2009 5:08 PM | Reply to this

What absolute and utter bullshit. It's the 21st century after all, I thought we were past the days of being terrifed of anything that isn't the norm. & besides, how many people do you think get onto first class every year with tattoos? I suppose that British Airways man was simply a dick.

Let's face it, some people are offended by tattoos, and thats their decision. By the same token many people are still (in my opinion, wrongly) offended by people of different races, religions and sexual orientations. Are we really going to kick every, let's say, black, atheist or gay person off a flight in the off chance that someone might tut at them?

I have to respect Joel though. I may not enjoy his music much, but it was pretty decent of him not to kick up a cliched diva strop. Whether there is a dress code or not, it is ultimately, discrimination.

Posted by Kerry | April 28, 2009 5:10 PM | Reply to this

They totally should have allowed him. It's part of him showing his identity as a person.
I mean thats just going to far!
Next thing you know they'll stop people with bright coloured hair!
pfft their just pathetic.

Posted by EmmaR | April 28, 2009 5:10 PM | Reply to this

Not only is it completely stupid and ridiculous, as well as discriminate it might now give a bad name to some of British people!
If people are going to be so offended, then don't look!
Britain's gone mad i swear

Posted by Sara | April 28, 2009 5:12 PM | Reply to this

This is absoloute crap. I'm sorry, but whaaat?! Loads of people have tattoos, so what, are they gonna ban those who have them from going on planes? Surely his tatts havent affected him beforehand so why now? Bloody British Airways. Its not exactly up to them if he wants tattoos, it shows who he is as a person, so why should he cover them up?
Pathetic!

Posted by Jade | April 28, 2009 5:25 PM | Reply to this

Thats just pure discrimination. Tattoo's are a form of art and should not be covered up for any reason!
The tattoos show what type of person Joel is, he likes to express himself in body art.
Let him do it.
Its wrong to discriminate someone for having a tattoo

Posted by Earrye | April 28, 2009 5:33 PM | Reply to this

and fuck the toff's!
It's pisses me off enough can't work in an office (hidden away from the world) if you're in the slightest bit different to dolly bird with her orange tan, fake nails, fake boobs and shit bleached hair!
So to get refused to sit on a flight with some dicks who'll all have their heads shoved up their arses anyway and won't even be able to see you cause of it... I'd have gone mental!

Posted by Az | April 28, 2009 5:34 PM | Reply to this

I Think That Is Absoulutley Pathetic Did He know who he was lol its so sad tht ppl are like tht so its ok to let a drunk perosn thts rude and dosent wot there doin but someone wiv a couple of tats cant please how sad :@

Posted by Chlooee_ | April 28, 2009 5:35 PM | Reply to this

Posted by Chlooee_ | April 28, 2009 5:36 PM | Reply to this

that's utterly ridiculous.
I can't begin to imagine how much he paid for a first class ticket on british airways, and they treat him like that?
If somebody doesn't like the tattoos, then they shouldn't bloody look!

Posted by sophie carroll | April 28, 2009 5:39 PM | Reply to this

that;s just going abit far isn't it?
i mean;
maybe if his tattoos were like, sexist or racist. but that's just a pile of crap mann.

Posted by martha | April 28, 2009 5:41 PM | Reply to this

that;s just going abit far isn't it?
i mean;
maybe if his tattoos were like, sexist or racist. but that's just a pile of crap mann.

Posted by martha | April 28, 2009 5:41 PM | Reply to this

Oh wow. An all new low. This is ridicioulous, seriously. Whats next, art galleries having to cover up paintings in case they offend people? This is stupid, tattoo's are just an art form, one of the oldest ones around. If people can't deal with them then they have issues. Wow.
P.S. I hate good charlotte.

Posted by Alison. | April 28, 2009 5:42 PM | Reply to this

That's disgraceful; don't discriminate because he has tattoos, discriminate because he's a wanker

Posted by cb | April 28, 2009 5:46 PM | Reply to this

What a fucking joke. Is there no way these days to express ourselves? It's okay to let terrorists on but a guy with tattoos is denied? ha! this world is a joke

Posted by Sophie Harris | April 28, 2009 5:53 PM | Reply to this

LOL, it would be british airways wouldn't it?? English Toffs.

Posted by Laura | April 28, 2009 5:58 PM | Reply to this

FUCK THAT!

Posted by alan | April 28, 2009 6:00 PM | Reply to this

Regardless of me very much disliking Good Charlotte's music I think it's ridiculous to tell someone to cover up their tats cause it might 'upset' someone, this isn't the 50's, it's 2009, big gnarly bikers that'll smash your face in for a bottle of whiskey aren't the only people who have tattoos anymore. That whole stigma of 'tattoos = thug' needs to die, I don't know how it hasn't already.

Posted by Mike | April 28, 2009 6:00 PM | Reply to this

All I know is when my boyfriend and I fly to Florida they better not do that shit to us. I have a few visible tattoos and so does he. It's a disgrace.

Posted by Chelsi | April 28, 2009 6:02 PM | Reply to this

Me, Happening to be delightfully English, feel that this reflects badley on our own culture!

Britain is were the Punk scene, and tonnes of other Alternate stuff was started! Since when have we started discriminating against things that we created? Tatoos is one of the major assesories in our fashion scene!

This make me mad to think that there are people who think this way, driving planes across the country. Kinda worrying if you think of the narrow minded people, and their highclass jobs.

I'm sure if anyone was offended, they could have asked him, but i'm sure first-class flyers are more respectful than that.

The guy brought a ticket, so is entitled to do as he wants.

Lemme just make it clear, Not everyone in England is like this :D We're nice really!

Much Love, and Anger.

x
Roobyn

Posted by Robyyn | April 28, 2009 6:06 PM | Reply to this

What you have to understand is that British Airways think the entire aviation industry is run for their benefit. They're a bunch of stuck up pricks who think they're better than everyone else and really look down their noses at just about everyone but the British royal family.

Posted by Steve | April 28, 2009 6:10 PM | Reply to this

i'm hardly the biggest fan of GC, but i think the British Airways dude was bang out of order to refuse him on the flight because of his tattoo'd arms were visible.

Screw you BA! :)

Posted by mark | April 28, 2009 6:19 PM | Reply to this

What!?
I think you need a reality check!

Posted by Lois | April 28, 2009 6:27 PM | Reply to this

God no!

Who the fuck cares if the poor rich people in first class are offended by some dudes tatts??? Ridiculous!
It's like saying they should remove their stupid armani suits & dolce sunglasses!

Fuck you BA!

Posted by Nicole | April 28, 2009 6:36 PM | Reply to this

God no!

Who the fuck cares if the poor rich people in first class are offended by some dudes tatts??? Ridiculous!
It's like saying they should remove their stupid armani suits & dolce sunglasses!

Snobby arseholes

Posted by Nicole | April 28, 2009 6:37 PM | Reply to this

Tattoos are a way of decorating your body, and I think it's disgusting that they were discriminating this way. Would they do the same to a woman wearing a burka by asking her to uncover her face? I don't think so. If they feel that tattoos are offensive or intimidating in some way they should state in the terms and conditions of the BA airlines that all tattoos should be fully covered up. Personally, I don't know anybody that is offended by tattoos, and it's not like his tattoos aren't tasteful. I'd understand if it was maybe a half naked woman but they're not.
The tattoos are a part of a culture, and they wouldn't ask someone of a culture related to a religion to remove or cover up anything, so why ask someone of this particular culture?
I think it's disgusting and shocking. This might be political correctness going too far. If the people in first class didn't like the tattoos, they could've looked another way. It wasn't his responsibility to try and please everyone.

Posted by Katy Grant | April 28, 2009 6:49 PM | Reply to this

Posted by Leanne | April 28, 2009 7:08 PM | Reply to this

That's just fucking ridiculous.. Does Joel Madden even have any controversial tattoo's?

Posted by Katie | April 28, 2009 7:08 PM | Reply to this

Its kinda shit to see people stil do this discrimination. I aint much of a fan for good charlotte but BA are being rather nieve and childish about minor issues. just sounds like a little case of a guy whos messd his life up, hes in a lousy job so he wants 2 try and gt some authority. In my opinion Good Charlotte being punks shud of just thrown this arrogance back at him and laughed. any other band would of just told him to speak to their manager and get the fuk out of ther way.

Posted by rick | April 28, 2009 7:12 PM | Reply to this

Personally the only time I think it's appropriate for tatts to be covered is if they include nudity, swearing or offensive slogans and your in a place where these more offensive images my be innapropriate. But on a plane? It's ridiculous.
(For the record, I have tattoos).

Posted by Sam | April 28, 2009 7:13 PM | Reply to this

This is pathetic, if first class passengers are nosey enough to be staring at him to see his tatto's then its there own problem if they get offended no-one asked them to look at him did they!

Posted by Emily | April 28, 2009 7:24 PM | Reply to this

That is pure discrimination,
fuck the first class people that would be 'offended' by the tattoos.

BA should get their arse kicked for this!
if Joel took legal action in sure he would have a hell of a lot of backup, because that is so unfair to do that to someone, so I hope Joel does somethin about this.

Posted by nik | April 28, 2009 7:24 PM | Reply to this

I can understand if he had a big ol' swastika like Charlie Manson right on his forehead, but they're hardly offensive. Some small minded person exercising what little power he has.

Posted by jennie | April 28, 2009 7:30 PM | Reply to this

BA have a responsibility to make people's flight as comfortable as possible. This however does not give them right to tell someone that certain small minded people may be offended by anothers choice to decorate their body. He is not an employee of BA and therefore should not have been refused a flight because he didn't want to cover up his tattoo's. This is a disgusting spectacle of intolerance. Not to mention he paid first class, I mean come on for an extra couple pounds the least he could be allowed to do was wear a short sleeved shirt. I mean really.

Posted by Fi | April 28, 2009 7:33 PM | Reply to this

Well I guess that it is a bit intimidating to other people that are not used the kind of body art that Joel Madden has. In all fairness, it was Joel Madden's choice to have those tattoos and should have been prepared for some kind of discrimination towards him.

But then if there was no formal complaint towards the tattoos, then no action should have been taken.

And before I get kicked down for saying this, I have nothing against Good Charlotte or tattoos themselves. In fact, I like Good Charlotte's music and plan on getting a tattoo myself, but it's just sometimes, you have to look at both sides of the story

Posted by Smo | April 28, 2009 7:38 PM | Reply to this

Okay, tattoos are body art and if they are not offensive, surely he should just be allowed to go anywhere without being asked to cover up. That's just stupid and shows how idiotic and pathetic people these days are. People pick out the simplest things just so they can make a big scene and get noticed. Body art is common in most areas of the world and so surely it should be fine to show it off?

Posted by Charley | April 28, 2009 7:46 PM | Reply to this

sorry are people in first class more easily 'upset' than people in other parts of the plane? ugh. saaaad world.

Posted by Kate. | April 28, 2009 7:51 PM | Reply to this

I Adore Tattoos,
But Because Of All The Pain And Suffering His Music Caused A Generation Of People With Taste,
I Just Wish They Took Him And Threw Him In The Engine...
Good Charlotte Are Not A Band, They Can Barely Be Described As People...
More Like Amoeba That A Record Company Cultivated And Juiced For Millions Of Dollars...

In Other Words... They're Shit...

And For Everyone Saying He Should Take Legal Action... Ask Yourself 'Does He Really Have The Cash For That?' If He Had That Much Of A Problem In Saying 'FUCK OFF I'LL FLY WITH ANOTHER COMPANY' Then He Can't Complain Really...

Posted by Jim | April 28, 2009 8:11 PM | Reply to this

that is disgusting !
shame on you ba

Posted by k price | April 28, 2009 8:21 PM | Reply to this

Well all I can say is that BA are being abosolutly pathetic, but I do know that there are some people I know, who don't like tattoos, but they have enough sense to either not look or understand that it's that person's choice to have them done.

Posted by Cupid Stunt | April 28, 2009 8:28 PM | Reply to this

well them people dont sit in first class. them people cant afford british airways first class

Posted by sam | April 28, 2009 8:39 PM | Reply to this

THATS STUPID!!!! I personally love tattoos! However my mum watches Miami Ink with me even though she HATES tattoos!!!

Posted by Zoe N | April 28, 2009 8:53 PM | Reply to this

if you dont like the music then why bother commenting?
And its totally ridiculous! no one else cared and im sure the passengers wouldnt of either.

Posted by dani | April 28, 2009 9:07 PM | Reply to this

this is utterly unbelievable. to treat a customer with such disrespect! no matter who he is or what he does, he's paid for the ticket and was not being loud and abusive, or causing the other customers any problems. You can't discriminate people because of the way they look.

Posted by Nancy | April 28, 2009 9:09 PM | Reply to this

I do think it is a bit unfair in a way, HOWEVER, they are actually just doing their job. These are people in first class and yes, stuck-up as it is, they are likely to get a little nervous about having someone with tattoos there.

The people on the plane are serving their customers. They need to ensure they are as comfortable as possible so that they fly with them again. That's how business works.

True, a black person would be allowed on, despite some people being racist. However body art is a choice, and you must understand that it can be intimidating as it states personality, and tattoos are often associated (sometimes wrongly) with trouble.

Yes, it's unfair, but I see where they are coming from.

Posted by Jamaranth | April 28, 2009 9:12 PM | Reply to this

I do understand that if you're a middle aged buisiness woman in first class reading the times, you may get maybe a bit creeped out by a dude with -omg- tattoos.

But still, he hasn't got anything offensive on him, and it was very exagerated and unusual.(I mean, plenty of people have tatts nowadays. Doesn't signify that he's some "druggie" -wouldn't be in first class would he?)

Probably just some power abusing arse. Poor Joel .. =P

Posted by Alice | April 28, 2009 9:12 PM | Reply to this

Thats pathetic. I'm sure that perhaps a fat guy in first class might offend benji but i doubt he'd complain.
People shouldn't obsess over what they look like.
However i can understand that it would be intimidating but at the end of the day, they should get on with it and not care, it is a form on discrimination.
But i guess asking him to cover up isn't completely unreasonable.

Posted by leonnie | April 28, 2009 9:20 PM | Reply to this

that's descrimination no matter how you look at, shouldn't have mattered to the guy that he was traveling first class and that he MIGHT have 'offended' other pasengers
tattoos are always seen in a bad way and its wrong

Posted by loupy | April 28, 2009 9:30 PM | Reply to this

definately not. he should be kicked off the plane for his music, not his ink!

Posted by kyleen | April 28, 2009 9:33 PM | Reply to this

that is a load of crap!!! if they werent offensive to anyone , wats the point. Ink ois totally acceptable these days so what THE HELL !!!!!!!
they need to focus on peope who are drunk not who has tattoos for gods sake!!!!

Posted by Sophie | April 28, 2009 10:01 PM | Reply to this

I think that is absolutely ridiculous. I can't believe how low and small people are to discriminate others choices of what they do to their bodies. I'e had people give me crap over my piercings and it's really not fair.
At the end of the day tatt's and piercings are personal choices, so why should anyone else care?
God people are getting so tupid these days.

Posted by Emma | April 28, 2009 10:27 PM | Reply to this

who the hell do they think they are!!!
ok so its alright for idiots to go onto planes that stink of fags...loud people on business calls and are fat but not people with tattoos!!
i think its a load of crap....they wernt harming anyone...he is a nice person and that BA person is just another predujest idiot in a world full of .... for lack of a better work idiots....what possible harm could tattos do to anyone... i think this is all a load of crap!!!!

Posted by jess XD | April 28, 2009 10:32 PM | Reply to this

Could understand if he was being drunk and disordly or he was just too drunk, but following instructions and not getting drunk but instead not being allowed to fly because of his tattos, thats just bullshit.
Should file a fucking complaint I know I would, god how fucked up do i sound, but they could get a free holiday or money.
So dont take that shit Joel, file a complaint on their ass!

Posted by Beckie | April 28, 2009 11:25 PM | Reply to this

Can nobody express thier individuality nowadays...
Tattoo's are part of you.

Posted by Maryanne | April 28, 2009 11:52 PM | Reply to this

Isn't this the same airline that told one of it's own members of staff that she couldn't wear a crucifix around her neck because it might offend non-Christians!?

Joel is a succesfull musician and paid good money that he earned for his flight. Reminds me of when I travelled 1st class on the train down to London recently (because it was cheaper than standard class). Some middle aged suited twat took one look at me and told me to move out of "his" 1st class carriage. I nearly punched the bigoted twat but showed him my 1st class ticket - and he apologised!

Posted by Matt | April 29, 2009 12:10 AM | Reply to this

I think this is horrendus. As is any discrimination against anyone for any reason. So Joel Madden has alot of money and is in a sucessfull band, he probbably flys quite alot, he has the money so why shouldnt he be allowed to fly first class. Why does it matter that he has tattoos, he had the money to pay for his flight or whatever he isnt a risk to the public and wasnt drunk so why be refused entry onto the flight?

probbably because the person that refused letting him on the plane has either a. something against tattoos. b. a horrible grudge with people that have tattoos 'cos once someone had a go at them ...and they had a tattoo..or simply he feels he is better than Joel Madden and the power has gone to his head.

Does any of that give him the right to refuse him from getting on the plane? no it dosnt.

I find it Appauling that in this day and age things such as tattoos, which you may want to call "alternative" are discriminated against.

What needs to be remembered is, me you, the person across the road or even joel madden might have tattoos, piercings but that does not mean anything other than they simply have tattoos and piercings, that dosnt mean that they are any less of a person than anyone else.

We all come into the world the same, we all leave the world the same...no one is better than anyone else, neither less of a person than anyone else.

Personally i feel that because he DID cover up this just allows such people to carry on with there silly narrow minded ways. So what if other 1st class passengers "might be offended", he has just as much right to be there as anyone else.

Posted by Angharad | April 29, 2009 1:48 AM | Reply to this

apparently the BA guy is in a bit of trouble!

Posted by Rhian | April 29, 2009 10:31 AM | Reply to this

BA have gone too far with this. If I was JM I would seriously consider sueing them for discrimination.
Just what the hell do alternative people have to do to be accepted in this world?
It's disgusting and regardless of whether I like GC or not, I think he's been treated like shit.

Posted by Ally | April 29, 2009 10:37 AM | Reply to this

As someone who has tattoos, I find this absolutely appalling behaviour. Whether you like them or not, tattoos have personal meaning behind them and are a statement of who you are as a person. Joel didn't deserve to be treated like that.

Posted by laura | April 29, 2009 11:05 AM | Reply to this

hy the fuck should he have 2 cover up his tatts? He paid 4 1st class it doesnt matter what his appearemce is. If tattoos offend someone, its their problem they shouldnt make an issue out of it. The world has gone crazy, I think tattoos are a peice of art and should not have to be covered up just in case it 'might' offend someone, if your that shallow your a waste of time and life

Posted by Tinks | April 29, 2009 11:15 AM | Reply to this

This is ridiculous! Ive seen his tattoos and nothing is wrong with them. I have a tattoo, so does this mean I would have to cover mine up! Not impressed!!

Posted by Emma | April 29, 2009 11:19 AM | Reply to this

COME ON!
Seriously what the hell is wrong with the world? Ok fair enough tatts aren't everyones cup of tea but not everyone likes people who smoke or drink doesn't mean we stop them from being themselves!
If I was Joel I ask for a formal appology by BA and demand equal rights for everyone!

Posted by megan | April 29, 2009 11:21 AM | Reply to this

What a load of bollocks! Seriously!! What is the point in doing this?? The only thing people care about when getting on a plane is that they get to their destination... not whose sitting next to them or on the plane!!!!

Posted by sophie | April 29, 2009 12:01 PM | Reply to this

they shouldnt be allowed to do that
if i was him i would make a big deal of it and ask for a appology
you have to give him cred for being able to keep his cool and listening because i definatly would of made a scene
poor guy.x

Posted by brynah | April 29, 2009 12:21 PM | Reply to this

I don't think it is at all right, discrimination is discrimination, people that cover their heads, therefore concealing their identity aren't allowed to be told to uncovered their heads, because it's part of their belief. Fair enough.
All Joel Maddens tattoo's are religious/spiritual or family based, people may have other beliefs, but like we have to do, you accept that not everyone believes the same.

It would have been a little more understandable had his tattoo's been obscene, but they're not... He paid his money, just like anyone else, there is no rule against tattoo's, so the guy was just being an idiot, putting it politely.

Having tattoo's, piercings and 'none normal' coloured hair, I too have fell victim to discrimination, not on flights, but other situations. people should be judged on personality and behaviour, not what they look like.

On a plus side the guy that made him cover up has been disciplined for it.

Posted by Becky | April 29, 2009 12:42 PM | Reply to this

Anywhere exclusive reserves the rights to refuse entry to a person who doesn't meet their standards.

Nightclub bouncers will knock you back if you're not wearing shoes, Rock Club bouncers will knock you back if you're wearing trackies, restaurants won't sit you if you dress the wrong way... it's a fact of life - if you want someone to provide you a service; you need to abide by their rules and if you don't like them, then you can drink, eat or fly with someone who'll put up with you.

BA aren't obliged to let *anyone* on their planes if they don't want to.

Posted by Dr. hero van Wildebeest | April 29, 2009 12:46 PM | Reply to this

This Is Fucking Stupid I Mean They Wouldnt Do It To Anyone In Second Class I Bet And When Good Charlotte's Good Mate (The Game) Goes On Flights He'd Fly First Class Would You Think He'd Have To Cover Up The Red Star On His Cheek? That Was Way Out Of Order And He Should Sue For Bodily Harm Lol..........Cant Wait For Good Charlottes New Album Hurry It Up A Lil =D Lol

Posted by Ollie | April 29, 2009 2:26 PM | Reply to this

Posted by Ollie | April 29, 2009 2:27 PM | Reply to this

to be honest, if they are first class they are seperated from everyone else in the standard seats (unless he was flying first class) but I'm sure British Airways should have warned him before hand!

Posted by Ben Vickers | April 29, 2009 3:02 PM | Reply to this

to be honest, if they are first class they are seperated from everyone else in the standard seats (unless he was flying first class) but I'm sure British Airways should have warned him before hand!

Posted by Ben Vickers | April 29, 2009 3:02 PM | Reply to this

i personally love tattoos and can't believe that you have to cover them up they are supposed to be a part of who you are and being made to cover them up is disgusting =[

Posted by blinkboys forever | April 29, 2009 5:06 PM | Reply to this

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA cover your face, fucking brilliant =D

Posted by Sarah | April 29, 2009 6:00 PM | Reply to this

youre a dick

Posted by jo | April 29, 2009 6:03 PM | Reply to this

What a load of shit, seriously...I thought individuality was a good thing. I think BA need to take a good look at themselves and grow up, because that's pretty pathetic. Poor Joel.

Posted by Kim | April 29, 2009 6:24 PM | Reply to this

tattoos are works of art!!! why should anyone cover them up? why should they have to?
just think of it like this :
you would be allowed to a carry a painting in with you but you can't have artwork on your body?
ridiculous

Posted by Becca | April 29, 2009 7:34 PM | Reply to this

I just wanna say good on BA. Too many of these schlebs are stinking up first class. it's called first class for a reason, darlings. We pay extra so we don't have to put up with the hoi polloi.

I bet he stole the cutlery too.

Posted by Joan Rivers | April 29, 2009 10:53 PM | Reply to this

BA are rubbish! I nearly missed my flight to New York as the arseholes wouldn't let me board with my MCR revenge hoodie on as it had two guns on the back! Also when i took it off i also got wrong for wearing a knuckle duster necklace! Really BA sort yourself out :(

Posted by Accountantcee hee lol | April 30, 2009 10:49 AM | Reply to this

BA made one huge mistake. They should've thrown him off once they were at cruising altitude.

Hailz!!!

Posted by SatanLord | April 30, 2009 1:30 PM | Reply to this

thats disgusting!
tattoos dont make a person. even if people did feel intimidated as some else has commented there is nothing to feel intimidated about and its just stereotyping. if they did feel that way im sure they would realise he isnt going to cause a fight or a riot just because of how he looks.

he shouldnt be made to cover them up. its a common part of our society now , people should just accept it.

Posted by gemma | May 2, 2009 5:05 PM | Reply to this

wtf is going on with the world? this is a load of bolloks. tattoos arnt offensive and no different from a hairstyle or skin colour. its discrimination and should not be aloud

Posted by Euan | May 2, 2009 11:45 PM | Reply to this

Or detoured to Guantanamo Bay and dropped him off there for some well deserved waterboarding.

Posted by Gorgar | May 3, 2009 1:25 AM | Reply to this

That's ridiculous. He's Joel Madden...
What a mediocre society we live in.

Posted by Tay | May 4, 2009 8:40 PM | Reply to this

F*ck's sake, this is bullcrap. This whole situation = bullcrap. End of.

Posted by Caitlin | May 4, 2009 9:14 PM | Reply to this

thats gotta be the worst piece of shit ever.
one in four people have a tattoo, most of the other passenger most likey had tattoo, just not as a many, so i doubt their gonna get offended.
Besides, these people have seeen tattoo's before, what do they do when there walking down a street and a fully tattooed WOman walkeds pass them? Jump infront of a bus?

Posted by ewr | May 14, 2009 11:38 AM | Reply to this

the guy paid his money fair and square, what he does with his body and how he decorates it is his choice and he should be allowed to show it freely. He's a celebrity for heavens sake, millions of people have seen his tattoo's because his face has been plaster all over the place for how many years now???? Its not like no-ones seen it all before. they're not offensive tattoo's, they all have a personal meaning to him, why shouldn't we be able to wear that on our bodies just like we speak and act freely (or at least when we used to be allowed to) The tattoo's weren't doing anyone any harm. I had a similar problem when I travelled first class TGV to paris, me and my friends were camping all over france and we took first class to paris as it was cheaper, so on we boarded in summer skirts, shorts and back packs and some of the looks we got from the business men and women in first class were horrendous, but we paid our money, we had as much right to be there as the next person. If your providing a service, your catering for all who can afford it, regardless of what or who they are. Thats just the way it works, if they had such a problem they shouldn't have taken his money in the first place.

Posted by Elizabeth Saunders | May 25, 2009 7:27 PM | Reply to this