A former employee has filed a lawsuit against a major travel company, alleging a series of discriminatory and retaliatory actions that culminated in his wrongful termination. The complaint was lodged by Mario Pastrana on March 5, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, targeting Flight Centre Travel Group (USA), Inc., operating as FCM Travel San Francisco.
Mario Pastrana's lawsuit outlines multiple grievances during his tenure at FCM, where he worked as a VIP Corporate Travel Consultant from January 16, 2023, until his dismissal on April 24, 2024. The plaintiff claims he was subjected to age discrimination at the age of 56, disability discrimination due to stress-related health issues, and sexual orientation discrimination as an openly gay man. Pastrana alleges that these discriminatory practices were in violation of California Government Code §12940 et seq., which protects employees from such treatment. He recounts incidents where derogatory comments about gays were made over the company's communication system and reported them to HR without any corrective action being taken. Additionally, Pastrana claims retaliation for raising concerns about workplace conditions and labor law violations regarding rest breaks.
The lawsuit accuses FCM of creating a hostile work environment through harassment based on age, disability, and sexual orientation. It also highlights the company's failure to prevent such harassment and retaliation despite being aware of it. Pastrana describes being placed on a "Success Plan" shortly after achieving recognition as one of the top producers in the company—a move he perceived as punitive following his complaints about workplace conditions.
Pastrana seeks compensatory damages for lost wages and benefits due to wrongful termination and emotional distress caused by the alleged misconduct. He is also pursuing punitive damages against FCM for acting with malice and disregard for his rights under California law. Furthermore, he requests declaratory relief to affirm that his termination was indeed motivated by unlawful discrimination and retaliation.
Representing Mario Pastrana is attorney Moira McQuaid from the Law Offices of Moira C. McQuaid in San Mateo, California. The case is presided over by Judge Sahar Enayati under Case No.: CGC-25-623012.