American Airlines CEO apologizes for mishandling the removal of Black passengers
Money | June 20, 2024, 11:34 p.m.
Following a lawsuit filed by Black passengers who were forced off an American Airlines flight due to a complaint about body odor, Chief Executive Robert Isom announced new measures. This includes staff training, establishing an advisory group, and evaluating policies on removing passengers. Isom expressed disappointment and acknowledged a breakdown in procedures and commitment to customers. The lawsuit detailed a traumatic experience for the passengers, leading to the airline holding employees accountable and engaging in settlement discussions. The incident drew attention to previous discrimination concerns, prompting the NAACP to warn of potential advisories if the airline did not respond decisively. American Airlines is now working to improve travel experiences for Black passengers by creating a dedicated advisory group and enhancing bias recognition training for staff. The NAACP has emphasized the importance of reinstating a diversity council to avoid further issues.