Airline KLM has sparked criticism online after a spokesperson said that breastfeeding mothers could be asked to "cover up" during a flight .
The Dutch airline specified that this measure could be taken to ensure that other passengers wouldn't be "offended" by mums feeding their babies .
In a heart-wrenching Facebook post, Shelby Angel shared her experience of breastfeeding on a KLM flight from San Francisco to Amsterdam.
Her one year old daughter needed to be fed because it calms her and makes her feel comfortable, the mother wrote.
She continued; "She's also a busy toddler who doesn't like to be covered. I do my best to be discreet but sometimes some skin shows.
"Before we even took off, i was approached by a flight attendant carrying a blanket.
"She told me (and I quote) 'if you want to continue doing the breastfeeding, you need to cover yourself."
Angel refused, but was warned by the flight attendant that if anyone complained, she would be held responsible.
Angel reported feeling "extremely uncomfortable and disrespected" by the flight attendant’s behaviour and the airline’s policy.
She added: "Instead of standing up for and protecting breastfeeding mothers and our children… KLM would rather hold up antiquated values that shame women's bodies."
In response, the airline posted on Facebook: "We would like to emphasise that breastfeeding is permitted on KLM flights.
"However, we strive to ensure that all of our passengers of all backgrounds feel comfortable on board.
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