Ross Barr, a cabin manager at EasyJet, claimed he was unfairly fired for sexual harassment, saying he faced harsher treatment because he is straight.

He lost his job for serious misconduct after multiple complaints from colleagues and passengers about inappropriate remarks and using the plane’s tannoy system for what he called “comedy routines” during safety announcements.

Barr had received a final warning in 2022, but further complaints over the next two years led to his dismissal.

During hearings, staff reported that Barr often made inappropriate comments. He allegedly called his team “lovely ladies,” commented on a colleague’s chest, stared at another’s backside, and made crude jokes when a colleague struggled with luggage.

He also introduced a crew member as “much more attractive.” One crew member claimed Barr spent entire shifts making sexual remarks and even boasted about a previous suspension, saying that a colleague’s body changes during pregnancy proved his earlier comments were “right.”

Barr defended himself, saying his remarks were harmless “flirty banter” and argued he was discriminated against because of his sexuality, suggesting that similar behavior would have been tolerated if made by a gay colleague.

Employment judge Muriel Robinson rejected his appeal, stating there was no evidence of discrimination and noting that Barr had a history of inappropriate behavior toward female staff.

The tribunal upheld EasyJet’s decision, ruling that his dismissal was fair and proportionate.