NAACP issues travel advisory to African-Americans flying American Airlines

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People has issued a travel advisory to African-Americans who fly American Airlines following reports of what the group called "a pattern of disturbing incidents" they say have been reported.

The NAACP listed several instances in which they say African-American passengers were removed from flights. Among the incidents cited by the civil rights organization include: an African-American passenger forced off a flight after responding to discriminatory comments from white passengers; an African-American passenger switched to coach while her white passenger companion was allowed to remain in first class; and an African-American woman and her infant being removed from an American Airlines flight when she asked that her stroller be retrieved from baggage.

"The growing list of incidents suggesting racial bias reflects an unacceptable corporate culture and involves behavior that cannot be dismissed as normal or random," said NAACP President and CEO, Derrick Johnson, in a statement. "We expect an audience with the leadership of American Airlines to air these grievances and to spur corrective action. Until these and other concerns are addressed, this national travel advisory will stand."

"We are disappointed to hear about this travel advisory as our team members -- a diverse community of gate agents, pilots, and flight attendants -- are proud to serve customers of all backgrounds," said American Airlines spokeswoman, Shannon Gilson, according to an online report by FOX News. "Every day American is committed to providing a positive, safe travel experience for everyone who flies with us."

ONLINE:

NAACP Issues National Travel Advisory For American Airlines
http://www.naacp.org/latest/naacp-issues-national-travel-advisory-american-airlines/

NAACP warns African-Americans about flying on American Airlines
http://www.foxnews.com/travel/2017/10/25/naacp-warns-african-americans-about-flying-on-american-airlines.html