Delta Air Lines has updated its policy to permit flight attendants to wear only American flag pins following criticism directed at two attendants who wore Palestinian flag pins while on duty.
The Atlanta-based airline made the announcement over the weekend, stating the new rule would be implemented on Monday, according to The New York Times.
The policy change follows after images of two flight attendants adorned with Palestinian flag pins went viral on social media platform X last week. One online comment described the pins as “Hamas badges,” referring to the U.S.-designated terrorist group governing the Gaza Strip. The controversy gained traction when Delta responded from its official social media account, stating, “I hear you as I’d be terrified as well, personally.”
The Council on American-Islamic Relations condemned Delta’s response, labeling it “just the latest example of anti-Palestinian racism.”
Following backlash, Delta deleted the tweet and issued an apology, explaining, “The tweet was not in line with our values.” The airline emphasized its commitment to an environment of inclusivity and respect, adding that the employee responsible for the tweet is no longer handling Delta’s social channels.
Previously, Delta employees were permitted to wear flags of countries other than the U.S. “The photographed flight attendants were compliant with Delta uniform guidelines and we have offered them support,” said a Delta spokeswoman to The Times.
This incident is part of a broader trend where the Israel-Hamas conflict has had repercussions on U.S. businesses. Earlier this year, Google dismissed over 50 employees who protested the company’s collaboration with the Israeli military.