American Airlines is taking steps to change its policies after three Black passengers claimed they were discriminated against on a flight. The incident occurred on a flight from Phoenix to New York in January.
The passengers, who were not traveling together, filed a lawsuit last month, accusing the airline of racial discrimination. The airline's CEO, Robert Isom, addressed the issue in a letter to employees and spoke with civil rights groups to discuss further actions.
American Airlines Tackles Discrimination, Promises Change
The controversy began when the passengers were removed from the plane due to complaints of "offensive body odor," a claim not mentioned during their prior flight from Los Angeles to Phoenix.
Videos recorded by the passengers suggest racial bias was a factor in their removal. After no alternative flights to New York were available, they were allowed back on the plane.
In response, Isom expressed his disappointment over the incident and the failure in the airline's handling of the situation.
According to CBS News, American Airlines has put the involved employees on leave and started an investigation. Isom's letter highlighted the airline's plan to prevent such incidents in the future, including reestablishing an advisory council and increasing employee training focused on diversity.
Derrick Johnson, President of the NAACP, acknowledged the airline's swift response and expressed hope that American Airlines' actions would serve as an example for other companies.
The airline promises to enhance the travel experience for Black customers and ensure accountability.
American Airlines aims to rebuild trust with its customers and improve its company culture. This includes reviewing operational procedures and establishing a long-term diversity plan to address and manage discrimination and bias effectively.
American Airlines Luggage Ends in Homeless Camp
An American Airlines passenger's luggage took a detour and ended up in a Hollywood homeless encampment.
According to FOX News, Aunny Grace, who flew from Dallas to Hollywood Burbank Airport, did not receive her suitcase for five days, during which it traveled unexpectedly to Denver and back to Dallas before finally arriving in Burbank.
Grace used an Apple AirTag to track her suitcase, which showed its location moving down Western Avenue in Hollywood. Eventually, the tracker indicated that her bag was in the middle of a Los Angeles homeless encampment at the intersection of Santa Monica Boulevard and Western Avenue.
Upon finding her belongings scattered at the site, Grace, overwhelmed and in tears, managed to recover her items with the help of a friend who negotiated with a homeless person for the return of the suitcase.
American Airlines has begun an investigation into how her luggage ended up so far from its intended destination and in such an unexpected situation.
In a statement, American Airlines expressed their commitment to ensuring the safe and timely arrival of checked luggage. They apologized to Grace and are in direct contact with her to resolve the issue and prevent future occurrences.
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