Passanger Kicked Out Of delta airlines Plane For wearing A Hwah Tuah T-Shirt
On September 1, 2024, a passenger was removed from a Delta Airlines flight at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport in Florida for wearing a controversial t-shirt. The shirt featured an image of former President Donald Trump making obscene hand gestures. And included a reference to the viral “Hawk Tuah” girl video.
The T-Shirt
The t-shirt in question depicted Donald Trump wearing American flag-colored sunglasses and holding up two middle fingers. The shirt also included the phrase “Hawk Tuah, Spit On That Thang,”. Referencing an R-rated viral video123. The provocative nature of the shirt led to a complaint from another passenger. Also prompting Delta Airlines staff to take action.
Airline’s Response
According to Delta Airlines’ Contract of Carriage, passengers can be removed from flights if their conduct, attire, hygiene, or odor creates an unreasonable risk of offense or annoyance to other passengers3. In this case, the airline staff initially asked the passenger to change his shirt or turn it inside out. The passenger complied by turning the shirt inside out but later reverted it to its original state once the plane was fully boarded.
Removal from the Flight
Shortly before takeoff, a Delta employee boarded the plane. And escorted the passenger off the flight. The passenger expressed his frustration, stating, “I’m getting kicked off because of my shirt,” and also directed some choice words at the Delta employee12.
Public Reaction
The removal of the passenger has generated mixed reactions. Some people support Delta Airlines’ decision, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a respectful and comfortable environment for all passengers. Others argue that the passenger’s right to free expression was infringed upon, and also that the airline overreacted to the situation123.
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between individual rights. And community standards in public spaces.
