Delta Air Lines has revised its policy to permit flight attendants to wear only American flag pins, following criticism of attendants seen with Palestinian flag pins while on duty.
The Atlanta-based airline announced the policy change over the weekend and stated it would take effect on Monday, according to The New York Times.
The decision follows a viral incident where photos of two flight attendants with Palestinian flag pins sparked controversy on social media. One comment referred to the pins as “Hamas badges,” alluding to the U.S.-designated terrorist group governing the Gaza Strip. Delta’s social media account responded to the uproar by saying, “I hear you as I’d be terrified as well, personally.”
The Council on American-Islamic Relations criticized Delta’s response, labeling it as “the latest example of anti-Palestinian racism.”
Delta has since deleted the contentious response and apologized, noting that the tweet “was not in line with our values.” The airline emphasized its commitment to an inclusive and respectful environment and announced that the employee responsible for the post no longer manages Delta’s social media channels.
Before this policy change, Delta employees were allowed to wear non-U.S. flag pins. “The photographed flight attendants were compliant with Delta uniform guidelines and we’ve been in touch with them to offer support,” a Delta spokeswoman told The Times.
This incident is one of several where the Israel-Hamas conflict has impacted U.S. businesses. Earlier this year, Google terminated over 50 employees who protested the company’s involvement with the Israeli military.