An airline was slammed for allegedly refusing people in wheelchairs onto their planes.

Low-cost carrier Thai VietJet, a subsidiary of VietJet based in Vietnam, reportedly turned away wheelchair user Kritsana Lalai at the gate, causing him to miss his flight.

Kritsana filed a report with the Minister for Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa decrying the alleged discrimination against disabled people.

Varawut said he has instructed officials to investigate the complaint.

Facing public furore, Thai VietJet responded to the allegations, saying in a statement issued on February 29 that it had strictly implemented plane boarding procedures.

The company said that according to their guidelines, passengers with mobility issues must notify the airline at least 48 hours before their flight. They must also be accompanied by an able-bodied person who agrees to act as their escort.

In Kritsana's case, they claimed that none of his four companions had agreed to be his escort. They added they had refunded his travel expenses.

Sorawut Noengchampong, Secretary to the Transport Minister, said a working group of officials and representatives of people with disabilities (PWD) has been formed to address alleged discrimination of PWDs on public transport.

VietJet is best known for its garish cabin crew uniforms - khaki hats, short skirts and red tops.

They sparked controversy in 2018 for its use of bikini-clad air hostesses in promotional shoots. The crew in bikinis even took part in a mid-air dance for footaballers returning home form a tournament.