Workplace banter can sometimes cross a line, and for one EasyJet cabin manager, it did—leading to his dismissal and a failed appeal.
Ross Barr, who spent eight years with the budget airline, was fired after repeatedly calling female colleagues “lovely ladies” and “darlings,” comments he insisted were harmless “flirty banter.”
Allegations of Misconduct
Barr faced additional accusations beyond casual nicknames.
Reports claim he turned tannoy announcements into comedy routines rather than delivering serious safety briefings.
Several staff and customer complaints described his behaviour as inappropriate and unprofessional.
Among the alleged incidents, Barr reportedly made sexually suggestive remarks to colleagues, including saying, “Oh I have just brushed past your boobs,” and commenting in front of passengers, “I’m not doing anything… I’m just staring at your ass.”
He also referred to female crew members as “lovely ladies” over the tannoy and addressed passengers with terms like “darling,” “young man,” and “young lady.”
One colleague described his constant sexual jokes throughout entire shifts.
Claiming Flirty Banter and Discrimination
Barr defended his actions as harmless banter, and initially claimed discrimination over his sexual orientation, suggesting he had been told he couldn’t make the same comments as a gay colleague.
After being sacked, he took the case to an employment tribunal, asserting that there was bias in the disciplinary process and that most passengers enjoyed his demeanor.
Employment Tribunal Backs EasyJet
The tribunal rejected Barr’s appeal, siding with EasyJet.
Judge Muriel Robison highlighted that as a cabin manager, Barr held a position of trust and had repeatedly failed to act professionally, creating an unsafe environment for his crew.
Barr had previously received a final warning following complaints in August 2022, where he was reminded that “as the crew manager, it is important for Ross to always be professional and a good role model for his crew.”
Despite this, further incidents occurred in 2023 and 2024, showing a pattern of misconduct.
Examples of Inappropriate Behaviour
The tribunal heard multiple disturbing examples:
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Barr referred to female colleagues as “much more attractive” in a manner he described as self-deprecating.
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He made comments of a sexual nature while helping with equipment, such as: “Having a problem trying to stuff it in? Bet you’ve never had that problem.”
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During announcements, he omitted some mandatory safety rules, including regulations on charging vapes.
Training and Professional Expectations Ignored
Despite completing workplace training in diversity, inclusion, and equality in March 2024, Barr continued to demonstrate behaviour inconsistent with EasyJet’s values.
Judge Robison emphasized that the dismissal was “within range of reasonable responses” and the process was fair.
“The position of cabin manager carries responsibility and trust,” Robison said.
“There has been a breakdown in trust in relation to these situations.
You should conduct yourself in a manner that ensures your crew feel safe onboard the aircraft.”
Conclusion
Ross Barr’s case serves as a reminder that workplace conduct and professionalism are taken seriously, especially in positions of authority.
Even comments intended as “flirty banter” can have serious consequences when they make colleagues feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
