SECURITY ASSAULTED & INSULTED ME.
Edit: I formally reported this incident to Aena. Despite follow-ups, their only response has been to refer back to their previous vague reply, without confirming whether CCTV was reviewed, whether the individuals were identified, or whether any action was taken. This lack of transparency is concerning. This airport is not safe due to their security staff's abuse of power.
I had a deeply concerning experience with security staff at Valencia Airport that fell well below acceptable professional standards.
Following the confiscation of a power bank, the situation escalated unnecessarily. I was not aware that filming in the security area was not permitted, and critically, no verbal instruction was given before a member of staff approached me from behind and forcefully grabbed me in an attempt to take my phone.
Another staff member then addressed me in an aggressive and degrading manner in front of other passengers, repeatedly calling me "uneducated." She further stated that she could prevent me from flying or detain me for questioning her conduct. These statements, particularly in the context of my cooperation, were inappropriate and indicative of a misuse of authority.
As soon as the rule was clearly explained, I immediately complied and deleted the video. Despite this, the hostile tone and behaviour continued.
The interaction also left me concerned about the possibility of discriminatory treatment. As a minority female passenger, the situation appeared to shift noticeably once I presented my passport, which is a British passport. I would expect this aspect to be taken seriously and reviewed appropriately.
I raised this formally with airport management at Aena. While the complaint was acknowledged, the follow-up has been slow and lacks transparency on whether any meaningful action has been taken.
This was a distressing experience that raises serious concerns about staff training, conduct, and accountability. Passengers should not be subjected to physical force without prior communication or to threatening and demeaning behaviour for simply seeking clarification.
I'll be updating here if there's any further update from the airport management in actions taken to address this. read more