Delta Air Lines has apologised for a social media post from an official company account which was condemned as “anti-Palestinian racism” before being removed.
The controversy began when the American airline responded to a picture posted on X showing two flight attendants – they were unaware that the photographs were being taken – wearing Palestinian flag pins which were incorrectly referred to as “Hamas badges” by a user on the social media platform.
The same user tweeted on Tuesday: “Since 2001 we take our shoes off in every airport because a terrorist attack in US soil. Now imagine getting into a Delta flight and seeing workers with Hamas badges in the air. What do you do?”
Delta's official X account responded: “I hear you as I'd be terrified as well, personally. Our employees reflect our culture and we do not take it lightly when our policy is not being followed.” The response was later deleted but not before screenshots were taken.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (Cair), the largest Muslim advocacy organisation in the US, condemned the airline and demanded an apology.
“Whether this racist post on Delta's X account was approved or unauthorised, Delta must apologise and take steps to educate its employees about this type of dangerous anti-Palestinian racism,” said Edward Ahmed Mitchell, Cair's national deputy director.
“Bigotry against Palestinian-Americans is absolutely out of control in workplaces and at schools – and it must stop.”
Delta's response
Delta posted an apology on X, stating that it “strives for an environment of inclusivity and respect for all”. The airline also mentioned that the employee responsible “no longer supports Delta's social channels”.
It remains unclear whether or not the employee responsible still works for the company.
According to CNN, the two Delta employees photographed wearing the pin badges will continue to work for the airline because what they wore was “in compliance" with the company uniform.
However, Delta has since announced a policy change. Starting on Monday, employees will only be allowed to wear American flags on their uniforms. Previously, pins representing countries and nationalities around the world were permitted.
“We are taking this step to help ensure a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for all,” the airline said. “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.”
