Grandmother Stranded in Puerto Rico with Emotional Support Parrot Returns to NYC

Emotional Support Parrot Dispute

• ✈️ An 81-year-old grandmother from the Bronx was stranded in Puerto Rico for nearly a week after Frontier Airlines refused to let her fly home with her African gray parrot, Plucky.
• 💔 The airline initially cited a policy prohibiting parrots in the cabin, causing significant distress to the grandmother, who considered Plucky her "savior" after her husband's passing.

Resolution and Return Home

• 🤝 After extensive efforts, including help from her son, Robert, and Senator Charles Schumer's office, Frontier Airlines changed its mind and allowed the pair to fly back together.
• 📄 Before boarding, the grandmother obtained a certificate of veterinary inspection and proof that Plucky was purchased in the U.S., with assistance from Bird Jungle and Senator Schumer's team.
• 🏠 The grandmother, described as traumatized by the experience, has returned to her home in Riverdale, NYC, and stated she will "never fly again."

Eyewitness News Exclusive Coverage

• 🎤 Eyewitness News was the only camera present at JFK airport to capture the moment the grandmother and Plucky touched down.
• ✅ The airline acknowledged a mistake on the initial flight out of New York, issuing a refund and voucher, but the focus remained on resolving the travel issue for the return trip.
• 🙏 The grandmother expressed deep gratitude to the Eyewitness News team and everyone involved in helping her and Plucky get home.