I was sexually assaulted on a plane - now I'm fighting for compensation

On a Qatar Airways flight from Doha to London Gatwick, Kelly, 24, was sexually assaulted by a fellow passenger, leading to severe emotional distress. The assailant, Momade Jussab, 66, was arrested and is serving a six-and-a-half year prison sentence after being convicted of multiple sexual assault charges. Although Kelly is relieved by the conviction, she has not been able to participate in social activities for nearly a year due to ongoing anxiety. She applied for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (CICS), but her claim was denied because the assault took place on a Qatari-registered aircraft, which is not considered a "relevant place" under the current guidelines. Kelly's lawyers argue that this exclusion is irrational and unjust, especially since crimes on foreign flights can be prosecuted in the UK.

The CICS rules, established under the Civil Aviation Act, prevent victims like Kelly from receiving necessary support. She expresses her frustration, stating, "I just want to be compensated for what I've been through. " The case underscores the need for reform in the legal framework to better support victims of sexual violence on international flights.