Delta Airlines faced intense backlash after the company’s social media account said it would be “terrified” if flight attendants wore a Palestinian flag pin, forcing them to issue a groveling apology.
On Wednesday, an X user posted two photos of Delta flight attendants wearing Palestine flag pins, which were incorrectly described as “Hamas badges,” during the flights — prompting a response from the airline.
“I hear you as I’d be terrified as well, personally,” the airline wrote in a post. “Our employees reflect our culture and we do not take it lightly when our policy is not being followed.”
Delta, who boasts over 1.6 million followers on the platform, deleted the post the following day and demoted the worker.
“On Wednesday, we removed a reply that was not in line with our values,” the airline said on X. “We strive for an environment of inclusivity & respect for all, in our communities & our planes. The employee responsible no longer supports Delta’s social channels. We apologize for this hurtful post.”
A Delta spokesperson said the two staffers were being offered support, according to The Hill.
Later that day, the airline announced a blanket ban on staff members wearing any flag badges, except the American flag, starting July 15.
The Post has reached out to Delta Airlines for further comment.
The original tweet was in response to a post featuring two images of Delta Airlines staffers wearing Palestinian flag lapel badges.
The X user described the pins as “Hamas badges” before referencing the 9/11 terror attacks.
“Since 2001 we take our shoes off in every airport because a terrorist attack in US soil,” the tweet read. “Now imagine getting into a Delta flight and seeing workers with Hamas badges in the air. What do you do?”
The post instantly raised eyebrows, including those from The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR).
“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,” the organization wrote on X.
“Bigotry against Palestinian-Americans is absolutely out of control in workplaces and at schools — and it must stop.”
In May, JetBlue banned its staffers from wearing flag badges after a Jewish passenger accused the airline of “blatant antisemitism” following a canceled flight.
The passenger’s trip was scrapped because he objected to a flight attendant wearing a “Free Palestine” pin during his trip to Las Vegas.
