Couple Kicked Off Flight Over Crying Baby, Airline Cites Safety Concerns

Allegiant Air removed the family from a flight from Florida to Indiana after a flight attendant reported the infant's 'feverish' appearance.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 9:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A couple traveling with their infant daughter were removed from an Allegiant Air flight from Punta Gorda, Florida to Indianapolis after a flight attendant reported concerns about the baby's health. The airline consulted its medical provider, who advised it was not in the child's best interest to continue the flight. The family was forced to find alternative transportation and accommodations, missing work and other commitments as a result.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges faced by families traveling with young children, as well as the authority airlines claim to have over passenger health and safety decisions. It raises questions about the appropriate protocols and communication between airlines, passengers, and medical professionals in such situations.

The details

According to the family's account, their baby girl Ellie was fussy and crying for a few minutes on the flight before being approached by an Allegiant Air worker. The worker asked detailed questions about the baby, including her name and birthdate, before informing the parents that a flight attendant had reported the baby as 'feverish' due to her red face from crying. The airline then told the family they would need to deplane, stating that medical professionals had deemed it unsafe for the baby to continue the flight, despite no one actually examining the child. The family was forced to find their own way home, missing work and other commitments, and were not provided any compensation or accommodations by the airline.

  • The incident occurred on March 27, 2026 during an Allegiant Air return flight from Punta Gorda, Florida to Indianapolis.
  • The family was booked on a flight the next morning at 11am.

The players

Sydney and Kyle Tash

The parents of the infant daughter who was removed from the Allegiant Air flight.

Ellie

The infant daughter of Sydney and Kyle Tash who was the focus of the airline's concerns.

Allegiant Air

The airline that removed the family from the flight and cited medical concerns about the infant's health as the reason.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Nobody would come and see her. Nobody on the flight was required to have a temperature checked. Nobody would even come and take her temperature. They said well she looks red and it looks like a rash. Several other babies were on the flight and also crying.”

— Sydney Tash, Mother

“Our crews are responsible for making real-time decisions that prioritize the safety and well-being of all passengers on board. If a crew member has concerns about a passenger's ability to travel, especially when an infant or potential medical issue is involved, they may pause boarding to consult our medical information service provider, MedLink.”

— Allegiant Air Spokesperson

What’s next

The family plans to pursue compensation from Allegiant Air for the disruption to their travel plans and the lack of support provided.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for clearer protocols and communication between airlines, passengers, and medical professionals when it comes to assessing the health and safety of young children on flights. It also raises concerns about the authority airlines claim over passenger health decisions without proper examination.