Delta Airlines has found itself in a major controversy over its social media post on the Palestinian flag. Delta, one of the major airlines in the United States, posted a tweet, now deleted, expressing sympathy for a post that incorrectly stated that two of its flight attendants were wearing “Hamas badges” along with Palestinian flag pins.
One X user tweeted on Tuesday, “Since 2001 we take off our shoes at every airport in case there’s a terrorist attack on US soil. Now imagine boarding a Delta plane and seeing activists with Hamas badges in the air. What would you do?”
We take our shoes off at every airport since 2001 because there has been a terrorist attack on US soil. Now imagine you are boarding an airport. @delta What do you do when you fly and see activists with Hamas badges in the air? pic.twitter.com/xBbQllq2SM
— I like Tesla (@iliketeslas) July 10, 2024
A day later, Delta Air Lines’ X account responded to the post, saying, “I hear you, I would personally be horrified too. Our employees reflect our culture and we do not take it lightly when our policy is not followed.”
However, this response was later removed.
The Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR), the largest Muslim advocacy organization in the US, criticised the airline for the “racist anti-Palestinian” tweet and demanded an apology.
Whether this racist post on Delta’s X account was approved or unauthorized, Delta should apologize and take steps to educate its employees about this type of dangerous anti-Palestinian racism. Bigotry against Palestinian-Americans in workplaces and workplaces is completely out of control… pic.twitter.com/3wezN6W8iN
— CAIR National (@CAIRNational) July 10, 2024
CAIR National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell said in a statement, “Whether this racist post on Delta’s X account was approved or unauthorized, Delta must apologize and take steps to educate its employees about this type of dangerous anti-Palestinian racism. Bigotry against Palestinian-Americans in workplaces and schools is completely out of control — and it must stop.”
Delta Air Lines apology
Following strong criticism, Delta Air Lines apologised over the incident and said it “strives for an environment of inclusiveness and respect for all”. It also said the employee responsible “no longer supports Delta’s social channels”.
The airline said, “On Wednesday, we removed a response that was not consistent with our values. We strive for an environment of inclusiveness and respect for all in our communities and on our aircraft. The employee responsible no longer supports Delta’s social channels. We apologize for this hurtful post.”
On Wednesday, we removed a reply that was not consistent with our values. We strive for an environment of inclusiveness and respect for all in our communities and on our aircraft. The employee responsible no longer supports Delta’s social channels. We apologize for this hurtful post.
— Delta (@delta) July 11, 2024
According to CBS News, the two Delta employees seen in the photo wearing the pins will continue to work for the airline because “it complies with its uniform policy.”
However, going forward, employees will only be allowed to wear American flags on their uniforms, Delta said.
“Previously, pins representing countries/nationalities of the world were allowed,” CBS News quoted Delta as saying.
“We are taking this step to help ensure a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for all. We are proud of our diverse base of employees and customers and the foundation of our brand, which is to connect the world and provide a premium experience,” the airline said.
