Delta Air Lines faces backlash over Palestine flag pin controversy

Delta stated that the employee “no longer supports their social channels.” In a public statement, Delta said, "On Wednesday, we removed a reply that was not in line with our values. 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."

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) also weighed in on the matter through their social media platform: "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."

While Delta's social media response suggested that wearing Palestine flag pins violates their uniform standards—which prohibit any clothing conveying messages or advocating positions other than those sponsored by Delta—the airline clarified that these pins do not breach their current uniform standards and no flight attendants have been terminated over this issue.

The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), representing some Delta employees, issued an open letter demanding decisive public action from Delta in support of flight attendants wearing Palestine flag pins. They argued that failing to publicly stand up for these employees undermines inclusivity and respect within the workplace.

"The union suggests that photographing of flight attendants stems from Delta cabin crew not having a union," noted one observer. However, it was pointed out that people carry smartphones universally across unionized airlines as well.

AFA-CWA union head had previously supported college anti-Israel protests, suggesting ideological motives behind their stance rather than purely pragmatic ones.

Delta faces a complex situation as it operates hubs in regions with significant Muslim populations and does not want to fuel AFA-CWA's unionization efforts further. As a resolution effective July 15th, only U.S. flags will be permitted on uniforms moving forward.