Delta Air Lines is changing its uniform policy days after it clashed with customers over the airline’s handling of a viral social media post about Palestinian badges.
Starting Monday, Delta employees will no longer be allowed to wear pins that represent a country or nationality other than the U.S.
“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,” a statement obtained by USA TODAY said Friday. “We are taking this step to help ensure a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for all.”
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What was the reason for this policy change?
It all started on Wednesday when an X user raised concerns about two different Delta flight attendants wearing what they described as “Hamas badges.”
“Since 2001, we have taken our shoes off at every airport because of a terrorist attack on American soil,” the post read. “Now imagine getting on a @Delta flight and seeing employees with Hamas badges in the air. What do you do?”
The post has exploded in recent days, with many siding with the Delta flight attendants, who pointed out that the pin is not a “Hamas badge” but rather the Palestinian flag. Other users took issue with the pins, citing their safety.
Delta responded to the post the same day, replying to the thread to address the situation. She wrote, “I understand, because I would be terrified too. Our employees reflect our culture and we do not take lightly any violations of our policies.”
The airline removed the response after a wave of negative comments, writing on Thursday that it was “not in line with our values.”
Delta withdraws and offers support to employees
Delta apologized for the “hurtful” post and said it will continue to “strive for an environment of inclusivity and respect for all, in our communities and on our aircraft.”
Some users rejected the apology, saying the airline had caved to pressure from bullies and vowed never to fly Delta again.
A Delta spokesperson said neither employee was fired, explaining online rumors that at least one of them was involved.
“The flight attendants photographed were in compliance with Delta’s uniform guidelines and we have reached out to them to offer support,” Delta said.
The Delta employee who wrote the response to the post about his “terrified state” has since been “counseled and is no longer supporting Delta’s social channels.”