American Airlines has grounded pilots who were seen celebrating the assassination of a Conservative commentator and Trump ally, Charlie Kirk. The company said that they condemn “violence of any kind” and “hate-related or hostile behaviour”.
‘Hate-related behaviour is unacceptable’
“American Airlines condemns violence of any kind,” the airline wrote on X (formerly Twitter), before adding, “Furthermore, hate-related or hostile behaviour runs contrary to our purpose, which is to care for people on life’s journey.”
The airline said that any such behaviour is unacceptable and that they have already initiated action against the said pilots.
‘This behaviour is disgusting’
Now, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy provided an update on the same, stating that the pilots have been removed from duty.
“American Airlines pilots who were caught celebrating the assassination of Charlie Kirk have been immediately grounded and removed from service by American Airlines,” he wrote on X.
He added that no company, responsible for the safety of people, should engage in such “disgusting” behaviour.
“We heal as a country when we send the message that glorifying political violence is completely unacceptable!” he further added.
American Airlines pilots who were caught celebrating the assassination of Charlie Kirk have been immediately grounded and removed from service by @AmericanAir.
— Secretary Sean Duffy (@SecDuffy) September 13, 2025
This behavior is disgusting and they should be fired.
Any company responsible for the safety of the traveling public… https://t.co/nq2B3G84hu
‘Their behaviour went beyond healthy, respectful’
Earlier, Delta Airlines had also suspended employees pending investigation for violating the company’s social media policy, adding that it went beyond “healthy, respectful” debate.
“Whether we’re in uniform and on the clock, online or out in public, our colleagues, customers and communities expect us to reflect Delta’s values – integrity, care and servant leadership – that we hold dear,” Delta CEO Ed Bastian’s letter to employees read.
He added, “These social posts stand in stark contrast to our values and our social media policy, and these employees have been suspended pending an investigation,” before saying that employees found violating social media policy may face termination.
“We all represent Delta at all times in any forum. We must act in ways that uphold our shared values and the human connection that defines us,” he further said.