A BUDGET airline is in damage control after allegedly telling a man who had both legs amputated to drag himself down two ramps, across the tarmac and onto the plane.

Matthew Parkes, 38, was travelling from Malaga in southern Spain to Manchester in the UK with his wife Pamela and his daughter Sophia, aged 4.

He told the Manchester Evening News he felt “like a second-class citizen” when he was instructed by gate staff to make his own way to a waiting Ryanair jet. When he refused, he was placed on a stretcher and carried aboard.

“I felt like a second-class citizen and was so embarrassed when this is so fresh and I’m still getting used to people staring at me,” Mr Parkes said. “Total humiliation.”

Mr Parkes lost both legs and suffered damage to one of his hands on a trip to Majorca in 2015. His holiday started badly when he began to complain about a sore throat.

He then suffered pneumonia and septic shock. Treatment for subsequent organ failure affected circulation and meant his legs would have to be amputated.

His wife took to Facebook on Friday after the story became public. She said her husband had been accused of making up the story.

“I hope those that know Matthew know that he has integrity,” she wrote. “He didn’t ask for a refund or a free flight. He stated he would never fly Ryanair again even if free. We will continue to name and shame if (discriminated against).”

She said her husband was terrified but wanted to go on a holiday, his first since losing his legs. She said he never expected the treatment he received.

“We had such a fantastic holiday. Matthew was terrified, understandably, but enjoyed it ... Then Ryanair treated him like an animal on the way back. He wasn’t recognised as a person, and I had to see my husband be humiliated. I’m absolutely disgusted. They need to change their policy for disabled people.”

Ryanair made a statement in response. A spokesman said: “As far as we can tell there is no truth to these claims. We have received no reports from either the cabin crew or the PRM provider of any issues in assisting this passenger to his seat.”