Update:
Many of the questions we received last week about Saudi Arabian Airlines’ plan to join SkyTeam were inspired by an article from Religion News Service, a wire service that provides coverage of religious and ethical issues.
That article, which was posted at USA Today, the Huffington Post and elsewhere, was ultimately retracted for what the news service’s editors acknowledged was “incomplete information” about the issue. In an Editor’s Note, the Religion News Service apologized for “any unintended implication that Delta would be adopting policies of the Saudi government.” They also said they were taking steps to improve their internal editor process to avoid such mistakes in the future.
Here’s the full text of the Editor’s Note from Religion News Service:
RELIGION NEWS SERVICE EDITOR’S NOTE:
The RNS story on Delta Air Lines’ pending partnership with Saudi Arabian Airlines that was distributed on June 23 contained incomplete information about Saudi visa policies and U.S. Jews’ ability to fly Delta flights to Saudi Arabia. The story was not fully edited according to RNS standards:
- While Saudi Arabia does not issue visas to citizens carrying Israeli passports, Saudi officials say an Israeli stamp in a U.S. passport is not a barrier to entry, even for a stop in transit.
- While Saudi Arabia does not allow non-Islamic religious articles within its borders, religious identity and a passenger’s religious articles are not barriers to flights on either Delta or Saudi Arabian Airlines flights.
- Airline alliance programs typically allow passengers on one airline to book tickets on another, or redeem frequent flyer points on partner airlines. On Friday, Delta said such “code-sharing” agreements will not be part of its alliance with Saudi Arabian Airlines, nor will Delta passengers be able to redeem Delta frequent flyer miles on the Saudi airline.
RNS takes very seriously its commitment to accuracy, balance and thorough reporting, and the June 23 story failed to meet those expectations. Steps are being taken to correct and improve our internal editing process. We regret that the story was transmitted with incomplete information, as well as any unintended implication that Delta would be adopting policies of the Saudi government.
———————
Update:
Today we’re still getting a lot questions from you about our association with SkyTeam and Saudi Airlines. We realize a lot of these remain unanswered, so we’ve compiled a list of the top questions we’re seeing in hopes of shedding further light on this issue.
Q: Will Saudi Air’s membership into SkyTeam affect Delta customers?
A: Simply put, no. We don’t intend to codeshare or share any reciprocal benefits (such as frequent flier benefits) with Saudi Air.
Q: Will any customers of Delta ever be discriminated against on their flight?
A: Absolutely not. As a global airline, we don’t discriminate against any of our customers in regards to age, race, nationality, religion, or gender.
Q: What’s your association with SkyTeam?
A: We’re a member of the 14-member global airline alliance based in Amsterdam.
Q: Do you operate any service to Saudi Arabia?
A: No, we don’t codeshare with any airline on flights to that country.
Q: Do you have any association with Saudi Air?
A: Yes, we have a standard industry agreement with them, which allows passengers to book tickets on multiple carriers. We have similar agreements with Saudi Air that American Airlines, US Airways and Alaska Airlines have as well.
———————
We’ve gotten questions today from you, our concerned customers, following an article about Saudi Arabian Airlines joining SkyTeam (the global airline alliance that includes Delta as a member). After listening to many of your thoughts today, we’d like to take this opportunity to share some information and help to clarify some of the questions we know you have.
First and foremost, I think one of the most important things to mention here is that Delta does not discriminate nor do we condone discrimination against anyone in regards to age, race, nationality, religion, or gender.
That said, some have raised questions about whether Saudi Arabian Airlines’ membership in SkyTeam means Delta is adopting any type of policies that could present barriers to travel for some passengers, including Jewish customers. For this particular concern, it’s important to realize that visa requirements to enter any country are dictated by that nation’s government, not the airlines, and they apply to anyone entering the country regardless of whether it’s by plane, bus or train.
We, like all international airlines, are required to comply with all applicable laws governing entry into every country we serve. You as passengers are responsible for obtaining the necessary travel documents, such as visas and certification of required vaccinations, and we’re responsible for making sure that you have the proper documentation before you board.
On a personal note, I want to share with you all that I’m proud to work at a global airline that serves a diverse customer base with an extremely diverse workforce, and I hope this blog has helped answer your questions on this important topic.
Trebor Banstetter
Delta Media Team
June 23rd, 2011 at 6:26 pm
I will not be flying Delta Airlines again. Your silly excuse is sickening. You should refuse to enter any relationship with any county in which it is illegal to carry a Bible openly. You make me sick!
Peter Voltz
June 23rd, 2011 at 6:48 pm
So, let me get this straight. In a nutshell, you’re saying, “We didn’t make the laws that make it illegal for Jews to travel to Saudi Arabia. But, for the amount of money we’ll make servicing those routes, we’ll happily enforce those laws. And, we’ll enforce them by checking the paperwork of everyone on flights bound for Saudi Arabia, and if any of them are Jews, kicking them off of the flight.”
Or, put another way, “It’s not our fault – we didn’t make these unjust laws – we just help to enforce them.”
Sounds like a pretty weak argument. And, strangely familiar.
June 23rd, 2011 at 6:54 pm
We are too proud to fly a global airline… so that isn’t the issue.
Will Saudi Arabian Airline discriminate a Jewish passenger? If so…. then there would be a quite an unpleasantness amongst the broader segment of passengers. Yes we understand, the nations have their own policies we have to adhere, but what about airlines? Sometimes they reflect the ethos and mindsets of the the countries beliefs and practices.
Delta, needs to have its travelers in mind and their safeguarding of dignity, self respect.
I have personally flown a round trip with Saudi Arabian airline several years ago and will never fly it again. Never!
I don’t want to air out my displeasure… but am very cautious of this alliance.
My $0.02 to the conversation…..
June 23rd, 2011 at 7:28 pm
I am not a Jew, and I don’t often carry a bible with me when I travel, but it is pretty offensive to me still that you skirted around the issue this way. Obviously your legal team has examined this option of partnering with Saudi Arabian airlines and is willing to take the risk, but despite the fact that your airline does not “discriminate” in the truest sense of the word, by partnering with an airline that so overtly does makes you just as guilty of it. I have never been a huge fan of your airline – your people are rude and not very accomodating – and this is just more proof that Delta Airlines is not worth the paper that its tickets are printed on. I will be urging everyone that I know to put their thoughts and words to good use and pass the word along that Delta Airlines is the last company that we would fly with.
June 23rd, 2011 at 7:49 pm
First and foremost, I think one of the most important things to mention here is that Delta does not discriminate nor do we condone discrimination against anyone in regards to age, race, nationality, religion, or gender.
If that was in fact true, you would be refusing to engage in a code-share agreement that required you to discriminate based upon religion, no?
Will you be telling people they cannot wear crosses on planes going to Saudi Arabia? Will you be telling them they can’t bring Bibles?
What, exactly are the responsibilities that Delta will be assuming by letting Saudi Arabian Airlines join SkyTeam?
More often than not, Delta makes me very happy that I earned Silver Medallion on Delta last year, and will be earning Gold this year. What i’ve been hearing about this, OTOH, makes me a bit ashamed of the nice things I’ve been saying about Delta. So, please, give us all the facts, so I can figure out if the claims about Delta are true, or false.
June 23rd, 2011 at 7:53 pm
So, you’re ignoring your own complicity and blaming the Saudis? Real nice. By making this deal with Saudi Arabian Airlines, you are not only discriminating against Jews, who would not be able to fly. You are also discriminating against Christians, who would have to swear they were not carrying any bibles or crosses, and you are oppressing American women by forcing them to cover up in fundamentalist Muslim garb.
Stop giving us this BS Public Relations! Dump Saudi Arabian Airlines and condemn all discrimination or you have lost many American customers forever!
June 23rd, 2011 at 7:55 pm
1. This is a pathetic excuse to justify Delta’s business venture with Saudi Arabian airlines. If S/A/Airlines decides to prohibit travel to not only Jews, but maybe all non muslims, gays etc., then I’m assuming Delta will comply since you’re bound by their requirements? And you are “proud to work at an airline that serves a diverse customer base with an extremely diverse workforce”? You should add a disclaimer* Except for Jewish people, since they are viewed as sub-human by muslim (and now Delta) standards.
2. Will S/A/Airlines allow a Jewish person to come in contact with the plane ie. maintenance, service, repair? Hypothetically speaking, with this reasoning, Delta would not have had any issues in respecting Nazi Germany’s laws against the Jewish people.
If this is Delta’s final decision on the matter then my family will never fly with Delta again. I will also begin contacting all companies and other related organizations associated with Delta to object to Delta’s acceptance of discrimination against Jewish Americans.
June 23rd, 2011 at 8:15 pm
When Pan Am and TWA served the Kingdom, they were required to comply with national policies. This isn’t “new news.” Delta isn’t discriminating, it’s complying with a country’s laws.
June 23rd, 2011 at 8:32 pm
So you will be checking visas prior to boarding to make sure there are no Jews?
June 23rd, 2011 at 8:50 pm
You don’t condone it yet you gladly do business with the devil. These words are contradictory and empty. There is no fact at all in this post. Of course it is a travelers responsibility to obtain travel documents. This isn’t the point. This is a distraction from the argument.
There is only one fact any of your customers need to know about this:
You do condone this behavior, because Delta is going to make money in this deal.
June 23rd, 2011 at 8:52 pm
Nice try Trebor but the damage is done. My family will NEVER fly Delta Airlines again.
BTW, this blog sure did answer my questions. Delta: Fly the Anti-Semitic Skies.
What kind of reaction did you expect from the public when this information was released? It seems some of the higher ups at Delta took their PR courses at Modesto Junior College. This surpasses Coca-Cola’s huge blunder with New Coke. Egads you people are stupid.
June 23rd, 2011 at 9:05 pm
Trebor, I genuinely appreciate you tackling this issue head-on, but I think the answer you’ve given so far leaves much to be desired. If I’ve got it right, you seem to be saying that the specific visa requirements of various countries are the strict prerogative of those countries and, as such, Delta is obliged to abide by them when doing business in or with those countries.
So, in partnering with Saudi airlines to service the kingdom, whatever restrictions that are required to be in place should be honored by Delta, whatever the specific content of those restrictions.
If this really is an “it’s out of our hands” defense, I think Delta faces trouble on two fronts.
1) Let’s call this point “how deep do values go?”: One question that arises is this: how terrible or heinous would a hypothetical country’s restrictions have to be for Delta to decline partnership, even in the face of enormous potential profit? If a hypothetical country called “Whiteland” refused entry to anyone who did not have a certain specific appearance and lineage, required to be proven by blood, would Delta consider a partnership with such a place if there were strong potential business benefits to be had? This isn’t a trap or a trick question: I’m merely asking what sorts of deep convictions are in play, and are there certain places (geographically and morally) that Delta is unwilling to go? Without making such commitments explicit, the “it’s out of our hands” defense could be taken as a commitment to “profits over people”. I don’t think this is what Delta actually stands for, but please, give us a little more to believe in.
2) Let’s call this point “the friends you keep”: in explicitly partnering with saudi air, you bring into the fold a member apparently committed to refusing service to jews, based on the fact they are jews. I say “apparently” because the news media is the only place I’ve heard this, and after spending time on the saudi air website, I still couldn’t find confirmation. Ominously, though, I haven’t heard a single word yet from Delta denying this claim. (If it is true, though, I think the conversation has progressed enough that Delta needs to be clear about it).
Now for any partnership to work, there has to be (a) some agreement on values and commitments (otherwise, why are they getting together in the first place?), and (b) where there are disagreements, they can’t be over matters the members deem to be ‘basic’, ‘defining’, or non-negotiable. The U.S. and Indonesia can have trade agreements by working around their differences, the U.S. and North Korea, not so much.
So when Delta enters into a partnership with Saudi air, we have a question of what sorts of things are agreed on, and what sorts of things are disagreed upon but can be worked around. There aren’t any non-starters in this partnership, because it is already off the ground, so to speak.
The problem Delta faces then is that the “it’s the host country’s regulations, not ours” defense rings a bit hollow when we look at the specific partnership between these business entities, because this is something Delta has control over. The Delta news feed over the partnership is rife with talk about ‘economic opportunity’, but I think people are left wondering (rightly, I think) about the compatibility of values in the friends being kept.
In any event, I hope Delta hasn’t written this issue off as a matter of “the problem is with Saudi Arabia; Delta is just following orders”. I’m positive there is a better answer to be had.
all the best
Rick
June 23rd, 2011 at 9:07 pm
I’m wondering whether this decision by Delta to become Sharia compliant (at least with this aspect of their Sky Team Alliance) is a smart business move. Will Delta have a net gain of customers and profits by partnering with anti-Semitic tyrannical states like Saudi Arabia? Is this insurance for Delta to be taken off the Islamic terrorists’ menu of hijack and bombing eligible airlines?
I’ve just exhausted my attempts to cancel my travel plans with Delta next week, being unsuccessful in avoiding their punishment fine of $210 for doing so. I’ll fly Delta on my next trip, and be sure to say goodbye to everyone along the way. It will be my last chance to ever do that again.
June 23rd, 2011 at 9:24 pm
One very disappointed Jewish Diamond here. The Visa stuff is a cop out Delta. You are who you choose to partner with. This is no more right than me patronizing a restaurant where blacks or gays are banned (I am neither btw) and then claiming “but they have good food and I dont make their rules”. Delta CHOOSE a partnership with the airline of a country known for discrimination, that is condoning it. To say I am shoocked at this is more than an understatement. DL has always had a high moral standard and this is selling out! You can stand behind the Visa laws as the excuse, but it is just that, an excuse. You are the company you keep Delta! The visa rules are discriminatory and you just said that is ok with us as long as we make money. Sad!
June 23rd, 2011 at 9:36 pm
I am not buying this “umbrella” group SkyTeam as a shield for Delta to hide behind as it allows a newly acquired airline to continue with discrimination and bigotry as a policy & SOP.
If Delta kowtows to the antisemitic policies of Saudia Arabian Airlines why not acquire KKK Airlines as well and allow them to continue barring black passengers?
Congratulations. You’ve lost this non-jewish customer and his family.
Good luck with sharia based travel guidelines.
June 23rd, 2011 at 9:43 pm
So, what you’re saying is: “We are not bigots, but sometimes we have to do business with countries where the law promotes bigotry…so what can we do, right? We don’t want to loose business, y’know…”
Interesting…
June 23rd, 2011 at 9:45 pm
The diversity and passport stamp is not the issue. The first time I went to Israel, I was told to have them stemp a removable paper, in case I wanted to go to an Arab country. The issue is the potential confiscation of articles (Bibles, for example), that are not Islamic. You mention the pride of Delta’s global airline status with a diverse customer base. Saudi Arabia is the very opposite of anything diverse. It is a pathetic country who treats all not male and Saudi like slaves. Diverse means all religions, peoples, etc. If it were not for oil, Saudi Arabia would be nothing and have nothing and therefore, there would be no need to fly there. As a 3million miler and Diamond customer, I find some of the policies and stances of Delta extremely contradictory to the southern hospitality airline that I remember that stood out for friendliness, service, and AMERICAN values. It appears that the tragic mistake of taking over NWA has finally won, which is degrading a once awesome airline to the level of, (well, most Delta customers can tell when they are on a NWA aircraft and/or flight crew).
June 23rd, 2011 at 9:56 pm
“First and foremost, I think one of the most important things to mention here is that Delta does not discriminate nor do we condone discrimination against anyone in regards to age, race, nationality, religion, or gender.”
By allowing those who do condone discrimination to join the Skyteam, you are in essence condoning it yourself. You can make all the excuses you want. But when it comes down to it, “Who you hang around defines you!”
June 23rd, 2011 at 10:42 pm
To say that you’re only following the policies of Saudi Arabia is no excuse for YOUR bad behavior. You’re tacitly condoning these actions, in this case blatant anti-semitism. The right answer: If this is their policy you should REFUSE to do business with them. Shame on you and Delta. You’ve lost my business and that of the three companies I sit on the boards of.
P.S. I want you to read something written by Pastor Martin Niemöller about German intellectuals following the rise of the Nazis to power….
First they came for the communists,
and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t a communist.
Then they came for the trade unionists,
and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews,
and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t a Jew.
Then they came for me
and there was no one left to speak out for me.
June 23rd, 2011 at 11:18 pm
Let’s begin with your obvious lies.
You don’t “condone discrimination against anyone in regards to age, race, nationality, religion, or gender”. This would be laughable if not so vile. You willingly enter into a partnership with an airline that forbids Jews to fly. I’m not sure what part of “condone” you think the public does not see in that.
Yes, you are obligated to comply with all applicable laws governing entry into a country. You however as an American company are also expected to live up to different standards. Simply hiding behind someone else’s apartheid is “legal” but I dare say the public backlash will be giving you second thoughts.
Lastly, I’d like to call you what you are. Vile racists turds. Good day.
June 23rd, 2011 at 11:18 pm
So, just to be clear, Delta has voluntarily agreed to partner with an airline that has a stated policy of not allowing Jews or Christians on some or all of its flights?
Just want to make sure that’s what you are implying (but not saying), before the fury of G-d is unleashed on your employer.
Good luck with this one.
June 23rd, 2011 at 11:30 pm
You don’t discriminate, you let other people do it for you.
June 23rd, 2011 at 11:38 pm
You choose to partner and fly to places that discriminate. You chose to do business with Saudi Arabian Airlines. How does this not make you a partner in discrimination based on religion?
June 23rd, 2011 at 11:41 pm
Why would you be in a partnership with a discriminatory airline? Don’t try to pass the blame onto Saudi Arabia. Would you have been partners with Nazi Germany? This policy is an affront to all free loving people. Why are you voluntarily enforcing their laws?
June 23rd, 2011 at 11:46 pm
I seriously wonder what would happy if blacks were banned from flights.
Would Delta, with its HQ in Atlanta and filled with many African-American employees, allow this to occur?
June 24th, 2011 at 12:49 am
Trebor, Your position that you are only complying with Saudi law in banning American Jews from your airline is unbelievable. You didn’t have to enter into an agreement with a racist airline.
Is it Delta’s position that if Saudi Arabia won’t let gays in, then you will ban gays? How about blacks? To be Jewish is not to have or not have “necessary travel documents.” It is full out discrimination and Delta is enabling it.
I won’t be flying Delta again and neither will any member of my family or employee of my company. Passing the buck to the State Department will not let Delta off the hook. If you don’t want Jews, just say so!
June 24th, 2011 at 1:16 am
Delta, I must respectfully disagree with your polices regarding barring individuals on flights. While Delta may have an obligation to limit those based on country entrance requirements, it is critical to understand that while you expound on non-discrimination Delta, like President Obama are willing to bow before the Saudi government in order to add gain to your coffers.
As a company that is a “global” company, you should well understand that it may behoove the company to say “no”. Finding alternate means to the end by having passengers to change aircrafts in more friendly country that allows both Jews and Muslims.
So as keeping in context with your example, follow THIS country’s law! While your flight originates in the USA or arrives in the USA, there should be zero tolerance for any exclusion based on race or religion.
Until such time, I cannot sponsor any thought of using Delta, or any affiliated company, nor consider them as solutions to my customer base for transportation or any other services.
June 24th, 2011 at 7:28 am
You say that Delta may not discriminate, but our partners do.
As long as Delta chooses to partner with Racist discriminatory airlines, I will not fly on Delta.
June 24th, 2011 at 8:49 am
This is a ridiculous excuse. Delta has the choice to allow Saudi Arabian Airlines into SkyTeam, so Delta has freely chosen to discriminate against Jews and Israelis. As a Catholic who abhors anti-Semitism, I refuse to fly Delta Airlines in the future (and I’ve flown it many times in the past). Remember, Delta has CHOSEN to partner with Saudi Arabian Airlines; it wasn’t forced to let them into SkyTeam.
June 24th, 2011 at 9:18 am
Either we are responsible for the consequences of the decisions or actions we take, or we’re not. This explanation is basically putting the responsibility of any discrimination on the passenger. Could we say that as long as a Jew put on a yellow star, the nazis were not responsible for discrimination. We also have to remember that it is not just Jews in this case, but Christians, or anyone who is in some way indicating that they are not Muslims. If the reverse were the case and no Muslim from Saudi Arabia could fly on Delta into the United States if they wore a headscarf, burka, carried the Koran, etc. would Delta also claim this has nothing to do with them. It’s amazing how we can separate the impact of our actions when money is involved. Basically Delta is saying they don’t condone discrimination, but please take your head out of the sand — THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT YOU ARE DOING!! I will be contacting American Express today to NO LONGER CARRY A DELTA SKYMILES CARD!!!!!!!!!!
June 24th, 2011 at 9:24 am
Your response sounds like great corporate-speak. The fact that a country dictates their policies is all well and good- that does not mean you have to part of the discriminatory alliance, thereby promoting and enhancing the policies of the so called kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
You could do the right thing and not join this alliance, Israel does not discriminate in this manner by the way
June 24th, 2011 at 9:24 am
I think not allowing Jewish people on your flights to Saudi Arabia does condone this kind of behavior. The fact is Delta Air Lines while gaining Islamic passengers and a new alliance partner will probably lose more than that here in America, you’ve already lost the respect of your customers. America allows freedom of religion, that’s why there are mosques here in America, while there are no churches and synagogues in Saudi Arabia. Are you also banning African Americans, and Asians as well? Are you proud to associate your company with Saudi Arabia at this point? As an American company you should represent certain values that our young men and women of the armed forces have paid the ultimate price for.
June 24th, 2011 at 9:27 am
If Delta truly believes what is written above, they will dissolve there relationship with Saudi Airlines.
June 24th, 2011 at 9:34 am
So, basically, Delta’s position is that while you do not agree with SAA’s clearly anti-semetic policy (or anti-non-islamic policy, in general), you still feel it is appropriate to be in business with and benefit from an organization that advocates such a policy. I wonder if your airline would be as lax about doing business with an airline that stipulated that no minorities could fly with them? Or women? Where, exactly, would Delta draw the line with regard to the types of partners they choose and the types of policies they choose to support through the brokering of mutually beneficial business relationships?
I agree with Trebor that international airlines are required to comply with the applicable laws of the country they serve. However, I do believe that airlines may choose which countries they will serve. I agree with Trebor that Delta is but one member of a global alliance. However, as a global alliance, shouldn’t Delta be using its clout and influence within that alliance to try and push its members to be more tolerant and more a part of the global community et al?
As I said, I wonder how far this shirking of responsibility will go and at what point Delta will takes its place as a global leader in the airline industry and make it clear that they will not partner with airlines that support discriminatory or prejudicial policies. Even in an unstable economy, perhaps especially in an unstable economy, maintaining our integrity and ethical fortitude is of the utmost importance.
June 24th, 2011 at 9:37 am
The blog by Mr. Banstatter begs the issue of discrimination and bigatry. The concern goes far beyond legal issues connected with visas, etc. but much more to the point of outright discrimination. I am at a lose to understand why Delta would need to partner with an entity that is discrimnatory in its business practices. There must be a significant profit to be found in this partnership for Delta to risk allienating a significant portion of its customer base. Visas ar irrelevant but the other practices by Saudi Airlines are not. Until Delta respondes in a manner related to the bigger issue I will use another carrier whenever possible and advise everyone i know to do the same.
June 24th, 2011 at 10:35 am
First it was charging our brave American soldiers for their extra bags (munitions and stuff) now it is targeting Jews and anyone else that has non-Islamic items or anyone who has a Israeli stamp on their passport (that’s right, think Christians visiting Jerusalem). Delta is supposed to be an AMERICAN company – they should exhibit AMERICAN values. How many more reasons do you need to NOT fly Delta anymore – I’m done!
June 24th, 2011 at 10:39 am
Delta is absolutely out of its gourd. Let’s look back a couple of decades. The apartheid regime in South Africa justly got its isolation because of its inhuman policies and practices; international boycotts made sense based on human rights. But it’s clear that if they had been filthy rich with oil, Delta would have turned its back on decency and the civil rights struggle here in the US to cozy up to them.
The Saudis have and promote a society as a model that is absolutely mind-boggling; it’s a 7th Century lunatic asylum, a catalog of the worst characteristics of human nature, all made state policy. If Delta wants to help advance the Saudi’s evil stature in this world, that’s literally their business. But my response is to not fly them, and continue to repost my opinion as far and wide as possible.
June 24th, 2011 at 10:44 am
Mr. Banstetter – Count me as another Delta flyer that isn’t buying your line. I’m disgusted by Delta’s choice, and also disgusted by your personal cowardly decision to hide behind some code-share legalise. Why not just come out and say it: “We discriminate. If you don’t like it, find another airline.” At least then you’d be owning your actions? How many comments will it take on your obscure blog before you get this through your head?
June 24th, 2011 at 10:45 am
this travel blogger has taken the time to Fact-Check the Hoff Post commentary and boy did it seem to need it. Very well worth the time to read it with great care IMVHO:
Flying With Fish
The Blog for Those Who Fly & Those Who Want to Fly Smarter
Delta “No Jews” Policy – Could This Story Be More Wrong?
“This afternoon The Huffington Post published an article by Rabbi Jason Miller entitled “Delta Adopts Saudi Arabian Airlines’ No Jew Policy.“ Granted, this headline is catchy and is inflammatory enough to make the story go viral … likely even to reach my Mother, who will be outraged and possibly forward me a link sometime in the next few days … but in reality so much of the article is incorrect that I don’t even know where to start.”
http://boardingarea.com/blogs/flyingwithfish/2011/06/23/delta-no-jews-policy-could-this-story-be-more-wrong/
June 24th, 2011 at 10:48 am
You can count me as one that will never fly Delta again. In the past that is all I have flown. Your moral dissregard for The Jewish people is absurd. I cannot believe that in this day and age that someone would do this. This is like the beginning of the Holacost all over again. Don’t laugh or think I am a nut because that is how it started. To put money before what is right tells me Delta’s stance and that is all I need to know. I hope that your airline goes broke. I will be sure the next time that you need a bailout from our USA goverment to let my congressman know your stance towards the jews. But I am sure the Saudi’s with all their money will bail you out. Maybe you could just become a Saudi airline. Good ridence
June 24th, 2011 at 11:09 am
I am just begining to wonder, if you Delta is in deception. If these comments are of any indication, there will be a mass exodus from flying Delta.
Go to values… not to short term bottom lines. This maybe one of your strategic blunders in making this decision to allow Saudi Airlines into the Skyteam alliance.
This will hurt your image in the main stream as well. It wont be too long before this will become national news.
June 24th, 2011 at 11:14 am
Wow… After reading an article yesterday that rates Delta as having the lowest consumer service record, I can see why. If it weren’t for the lateness of flights, the rude and curtness that permeates its employees, or the constant mail acting as if I must use my miles for unneeded magazines, this airline may be one of my favorites… That has changed. When a corporation claims they must discriminate because of the rules of another country, then they are discriminating. There is a choice. The choice is to cancel flights to the Saudi Arabia. One thought that comes to mind, is the thousands of Delta employees you have just alienated. It is against US Law to disallow an individual to work because of race, religion, sexual orientations, etc.. Does this now mean that on every Delta job application, you know must list religion? The choice to cancel flights to a region unfriendly, non-supportive, and openly hostile to Americans is not really a choice – it seems like common sense.
June 24th, 2011 at 11:16 am
Delta’s new partnership is offensive. I will never fly this airlines again. American Business is not business when it excludes Americans. FYI. American Express’s partnership with Delta is now offensive to me as well. If AMEX does not change partners – I will stop using their card.
When a company makes a decision to be partnered with a country that treats woman like second class citizens, does not allow jews and Christian items such as bibles and crosses. It is shameful. What is next……
If you look gay – sorry can’t come, if you are handicapped, sorry not you either…. If they don’t like the sound of your last name… etc.
Perhaps Americans should not allow Saudi Arabians into our country. Ten years ago we allowed 19 Saudi Arabian men to enter to our country and look at the problems they caused.
June 24th, 2011 at 11:16 am
Poor Trebor, Poor Rachel. They are PR professionals, I think, that again are put in the position of passing along ‘policy’ yet have no executive to make a statement. Oh, well. We’ll have to take the ‘blog’ comments of the ‘Delta Media Team’ whom I am sure had no part in this decision….but it doesn’t mean we have to like it.
My one comment a about Saudi Arabia is…I think the US should NEVER again save their hides…reference Saudi War. They have their beliefs and they are entitled to them. We spend way to much money and energey on people who profess to be our allies. ACTIONS speak louder than words.
We can choose to work with them or not. Delta has chosen to…the can or worms has just been opened. I CAN wait, but I’m sure there will be an international incident due to these policies. Then we can go to the Delta Blog and get real scoop. [?]
You made your bed. Sleep well.
June 24th, 2011 at 11:17 am
Perhaps Americans should not allow Saudi Arabians into our country. Ten years ago we allowed 19 Saudi Arabian men to enter to our country and look at the problems they caused.
June 24th, 2011 at 11:22 am
As a frequent Delta Flyer with Gold status, I am appalled at this alliance and your ridiculous comment “justifying” Saudi Air becoming a partner.
There are lots of other airlines servicing my market – I don’t need Delta any longer.
June 24th, 2011 at 11:24 am
In a statement to Religion News Service on Thursday (June 23), Delta said it “does not discriminate, nor do we condone discrimination against any protected class of passenger in regards to age, race, nationality, religion, or gender.”
^^^This comment was pulled from the article below; SEEMS WE HAVE A DOUBLE STANDARD HERE OR PLAIN AND OUTRIGHT ‘MUTUAL AGREEMENT OF HATE’ AND RELIGIOUS PRACTICES AS IN PLANES HITTING ‘TWINS’!
By Michele Chabin
Religion News Service
JERUSALEM (RNS) Jews and Israelis, or passengers carrying any non-Islamic article of faith, will not be able to fly code-share flights from the U.S. to Saudi Arabia under Delta Air Line’s new partnership with Saudi Arabian Airlines that is set to begin in 2012. Although Delta announced in January that the Saudi airline would join its SkyTeam network next year, the implications of the deal only came to light recently, according to people who have scrutinized the details.
Saudi Arabia, which is governed by strict Islamic law, requires citizens of almost every country to obtain a visa. People who wish to enter the country must have a sponsor; women, who must be dressed according to Saudi standards of modesty, must be met at the Saudi airport by a man who will act as a chaperone.
Saudi Arabia bans anyone with an Israeli stamp in their passport from entering the country, even in transit. Many Jews believe the kingdom has also withheld visas from travelers with Jewish-sounding names.
Religious items such as Bibles that are not related to Islam may be confiscated at the airport.
Colby M. May, senior counsel of the American Center for Law and Justice, a conservative legal group founded by religious broadcaster Pat Robertson, said his office is trying to determine if the agreement runs afoul of U.S. law.
“The very idea that there is a common carrier airline service that would deny an American citizen in America access to their services because they are Jewish or have religious items such as a yarmulke, a cross or a priestly collar, is deeply disturbing,” May said.
May said he is “trying to get answers” from Delta.
“They have not responded in a way that answers the question,” he said. “Hopefully they’ll do so.”
In a statement to Religion News Service on Thursday (June 23), Delta said it “does not discriminate, nor do we condone discrimination against any protected class of passenger in regards to age, race, nationality, religion, or gender.”
The airline, which did not deny the new policy, insisted that it has no control over who may fly to Saudi Arabia.
“Delta must also comply with all applicable laws in every country it serves,” adding that passengers are responsible for obtaining the necessary travel documents required for entry.
“If a passenger travels without proper documents, the passenger may be denied entry into that country and our airline may be fined,” the statement said.
The Jan. 10 agreement allows Saudi Arabian Airlines to become a member of SkyTeam in 2012 after “fulfilling all membership requirements,” according to a SkyTeam statement. The Saudi airline is SkyTeam’s first member from the Middle East.
The policy has deeply angered U.S. Jewish groups, especially since Delta is an American carrier.
“Saudi Arabia, a U.S. ally, should be strongly condemned for its despicable discrimination against Jews,” said Kenneth Bandler, a spokesman for the New York-based American Jewish Committee.
“For an American company, our nation’s values should trump narrow business interests. Delta should be the first to reject Saudi airlines as a SkyTeam member.”
Dan Diker, secretary general of the World Jewish Congress, said he hoped “Delta will not be complicit with what appears to be a demonstrably anti-Semitic and racist policy by Saudi Arabian Airlines.”
Jack Jenkins contributed to this report.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/06/23/us-jews-not-able-to-fly-o_n_883568.html?icid=maing-grid7|main5|dl1|sec1_lnk2|72803
^^^CREDIT TO THIS NEWS AGENCY^^^
June 24th, 2011 at 11:29 am
The use of a non-discrimination statement as a response represents very poor judgment or poor advice. This is a matter of business ethics and principle for Delta’s Board of Directors, CEO and General Counsel. It is no different than decisions about bribery and looking the other way when there is a fundamental wrong. You are not obligated to partner with them. It is a case of short term profits VS principle.
To balance the economic equation, I personally will not use Delta whenever possible and will advise others to do the same until Delta finds its backbone.
June 24th, 2011 at 11:37 am
Delta’s acceptance of a no-Jew fly policy on any flight going to Saudi Arabia is anti American and anti freedom. These are the ideals which thousands of men and women have fought to protect and DIED for! Delta’s decision to adopt the Saudi’s demands that no Jew be allowed to fly on any flight going to SA is DESPICABLE, giving in to the MOST repressive sharia regime on the planet.
My understanding is that Christians CAN fly, but may not have in their possession a bible or a crucifix.
Delta – not only will I NEVER fly your airlines again, which I have in the past, often, I will tell EVERYONE I know to boycott your DESPICABLE airlines!!
You could have chosen to turn down the Saudi request, saying you cannot allow such discrimination to tarnish your reputation, but I guess the money was just to effing good for you to say no!
Choosing money over the principles this great country stands for may make your stockholders richer, but your greed can never cover for your flagrant snub of the freedom that every human being is deserving of. You have DENIED THE FREEDOM of an ENTIRE CULTURE, preventing 14 million people from getting on your planes destined for the most oppressive country in the world.
Congrats. Needless to say, I will NEVER fly Delta again!
June 24th, 2011 at 11:50 am
This is a very sad day for Delta airlines. I am not Jewish but I can not understand why Delta would choose to participate in a partnership that does not uphold values that are so important. By forming this close alliance you are sending a very clear message to your customer base about what is more important to you. Wake up Delta! People are important! Jewish people have suffered this attitude for much too long! Stop the insanity!
June 24th, 2011 at 11:52 am
I presently have two vacation trips with Delta flying my wife and I.
I am embrassed and shocked with Delta partnering with a country that limits who may visit or even land in their country. I WILL NEVER FLY WITH DELTA AGAIN until they change their discrimination and bigatry policies.
June 24th, 2011 at 12:00 pm
OK Trebor (and all Delta PR staff and management)-
Great PR approach, justification, obfuscation, mediating comments, defusing strategy, refocusing commentary……..in summary, Delta has traded its unique American face and sense of national pride for profit and perhaps – behind the scenes – political expediency. We know that Saudis put big bucks into the transportation coffers of Delta and anywhere else their (myopic) senses take them….they also breed terrorists, strangle the world-wide energy market at their whim, denigrate life forms lesser than Saudi male, openly discriminate against anyTHING or anyONE not Saudi and further promulgate Islamic fundamentalism. So what’s not to like, eh?? Well, THIS family and our respective businesses, with our platinum/gold medallion members, WILL NO LONGER PATRONIZE our “hometown airline”. I am sure that the members of the Delta Board and stockholders will view this attitude as short-sighted and essentially not impactful on the Delta bottom line. So be it. We won’t be flying any parts of the Delta family anymore. Pin our “medallions” on the next Saudi in line….you clearly prefer their racist and culturally bigoted company to ours.
June 24th, 2011 at 12:02 pm
Thank you all 35 above for your outstanding comments about the anti-semitism Delta is displaying with the new partnership. I am so glad to see that Jew and non-Jew alike are so offended by this, as they should be. I blog a lot on facebook and this was of course my status today. The response to my post has been similar to the comments above…there is just no justification for this. Delta made a choice..for financial reason I am sure..and they will have to deal with the fall out from the choice. I think they can expect a huge backlash, as other were posting it on facebook, it came across on AOL top stories, and is in the Huffington Post, as well as other sites I am sure. I have always flown Delta and know they have gone through some rough economic times, but every choice to make money has to be weighed against the ill will it may cause. Bad choice Delta.
June 24th, 2011 at 12:04 pm
What I really like about this situation…is that Delta’s board of directors…has names like Gorman, Hauenstein, Fischer Newman… I bet you are the core of the Jewish Community on Shabats ( only).
June 24th, 2011 at 12:06 pm
Also, one would think that REJECTING this partnership with Saudi’s and officially making an outrageous press conference defending the moral standard…would draw more domestic buyers to Delta.
June 24th, 2011 at 12:07 pm
Discrimination, clear and simple! Don’t partner with countries that discriminate. This is beyond a financial issue. You are setting a very bad agenda that will lead to more discrimination and hate. Is that what your company wants to be known for? Please do not stir the pot of hate!!!!
June 24th, 2011 at 12:14 pm
Delta’s argument that it “must comply with all applicable laws in every country it serves,” does not hold up since Delta has voluntarily chosen to fly into a country that will not allow Jews, or Christians who wish to carry their Bibles, to enter.
No, the issue here is one of principle. Delta could actually stand on principle and refuse to include Saudi Arabian Airlines in the Sky Team Alliance based on its own non-discriminatory policies.
I understand how competitive air travel has become. However, it is deplorable for Delta to be complicit with a country’s anti-Semitic policies just to make a buck. That’s the bottom line in Delta’s decision and no amount of corporate spin can change that.
Now, travelers will have to do some soul searching in deciding what’s important to them.
June 24th, 2011 at 12:15 pm
I live in Atlanta and I’ve been a loyal Delta customer for over 35 years. After your horrible decision to partner with a country that openly discriminates against Jews, I will no longer use your airline. I also have a Delta gold card which I will cancel.
I find your explanation less than satisfactory. Believe me, you will loose big on this one.
I recently flew to Israel on Delta and now regret not using another airline — lesson learned — I’m “outta here.” Oh wait a minute …. since I am Jewish, I guess I wouldn’t be welcome anyway.
June 24th, 2011 at 12:26 pm
platinum medallion delta reserve five years running… now currently looking for status matches on other carriers and canceling amex. Big difference between the israeli passport and/or stamp thing (which although I disagree with, is a political position) and not allowing a whole group of people into your country which is outright disgusting .. and delta, whatever they say to the contrary, is at the very least implcitly supporting
June 24th, 2011 at 12:33 pm
As stated by everyone else, your response proves that Delta just doesn’t get it. Justr because you legally can enter into such an alliance doesn’t mean you should. What happened to the company’s heart and soul? Don’t you care? Is it really all about money now? I challenge you to answer the following questions on your blog to give us the real truth about the effect of this policy.
(1) Your response seems to suggest that as long as you have a valid Visa, they will let you on a plane to Saudi Arabia. But if someone shows up at the gate wearing a yarmulke (or other Jewish religious garb) and a valid Visa, will Delta still allow them on the plane knowing they will likely be denied entry to Saudi Arabia? How can Delta refuse passage to such persons and comply with US law?
(2) If Delta eventually flies to Saudi Arabia, will it also be required to adhere to Saudi Government rules banning women pilots, and how do its employees feel about that possibility?
(3) Will Delta flight attendants or pilots who have Israeli stamps on their passports, or may have been born in Israel, be banned from planes flying to Saudi Arabia?
(4) To what extent does Delta’s code share agreement with Saudi Arabian Airlines obligate them to comply with the Arab League boycott that is a condition of doing business with the Kingdom?
(5) Is Delta willing to make its agreement with Saudi Arabian Airlines public?
(7) Has Delta considered the economic impact of the boycotts likely to result from its intransigence.
Delta could be a hero if it reverses course and admits it made a mistake. Otherwise, I too will not travel on Delta when the code-share agreement becomes effective and will try to get as many others as I can to do the same.
June 24th, 2011 at 12:37 pm
We are turning this position viral on facebook and you will be very sorry that you have taken this stand on flights from the US to Saudi Arabia. How many Jewish terrorist acts have been reported that any nation would take such a stand on policy. Do the El Al flights ban Muslims? Are Christians banned on flights to Croatia? Reprehensible complicity with a contemptible policy does not make you innocent. It makes you conspirators. Change your policy or lose my business.
June 24th, 2011 at 12:41 pm
While United and AA are members of alliances that travel to Saudi Arabia, therefore not allowing passengers without a Saudi Arabian visa to travel to Saudi Arabia (i.e, Jews and people with passports stamped by Israel), Delta has decided to partner up with the only Saudi airline that is a fully owned entity of the Saudi government. Saudi Arabian Airlines is a governmental agency. Delta has decided to partner with the Saudi government directly. Just like I’m not welcome in Saudi Arabia, I dont welcome doing business with people do not welcome me (Saudi Arabia).
I’ll take my 100k miles that I fly per year elsewhere.
The best part of this all is that Delta can’t even comment back to anybody that takes the time to express their opinions here.
June 24th, 2011 at 12:42 pm
Just for the record, if Delta pulls out of service to Israel in the next six months, which they probably will, we will all know why.
June 24th, 2011 at 12:46 pm
Sorry Trebor, this is a copout. I fly with Delta many times a year but am thinking seriously of finding another airline after this debacle.
If your only company line is that it’s not your problem, it’s the Kingdom’s, shame on Delta for doing business with them. Bottom line is that you’ll have to enforce this and it’s anti-Semitic and I think you guys should take a principled stand and reject working with anti semites.
June 24th, 2011 at 12:59 pm
You can skirt the issue all you wish, but at the end of the day you have CHOSEN to do business with the Saudi’s. I have now CHOSEN never to do business with Delta again! I will CHOOSE to remind my friends, family, and co-workers to not do business with Delta. Life’s about choices and you have made a very bad one!
June 24th, 2011 at 12:59 pm
Mr Banstatter this policy is anti semitic and racist. To blame the Saudi government is a cop out. Delta knowingly entered this relationship and has to bear the blame. To take on a avowed racist as a partner is absurd. This is like taking on South African Airlines as a partner if apartheid still existed. Would you then ban blacks from flying in the front section of the plane because that’s how the law in that country was enforced?
Any staff member who evaluated and approved adding Saudi a Sky Team member should be fired. Such a lack of judgment should not be tolerated.
You are going to lose (and rightly so) a fair amount of business over this so don’t come crying when you are in a hole.
I hope the US government takes a look at this discriminatory practice and places sanctions against the airline.
June 24th, 2011 at 1:04 pm
Let’s call this what it is. Aiding and abetting racist policies from a 7th century countries mentalities. We as Americans should boycott any and all businesses that do business with these countries that ultimately want to see the fall and demise of the greatest country on Earth. So anyway you spin this Delta, it’s all about the money and from what I can tell, your moral compass is broke. Good luck watching your company go down in flames. Don’t expect a bail-out when you go bankrupt from being stupid.
June 24th, 2011 at 1:09 pm
What a really flimsy way to address this topic. So in basics what Delta is trying to say here that when in comes to discrimination, it’s fine to do business and turn the other cheek???? They know this policy existed, they know it is highly discriminatory, but they choose to let saudia Arabia into “Skyteam” nonetheless???
If this had been 40′s era nazi germany would Delta maintain the same policy? Would the mantra be “We can’t prevent Countries from committing genocide, so we’ll turn the other cheek, because those are their policies. But oh no no, not ours. We’re just the ones who still endorse it anyhow.
I really would have expected a lot more from an international company that is U.S based. This is a sad reflection on delta, and I’m sure the crises communications team is going to have a lot of fun dealing with the media and social media backlash from this one for months. Not many things can cause boycotting, Congrats delta, you’ve found a sure fire path.
Add me to the list of people who have a reason to fly any other airline.
June 24th, 2011 at 1:14 pm
People, Delta does not “own” SkyTeam. They are merely a memer of the Alliance which includes 14 other Airlines. Delta does not operate service to Saudi Arabia and does not codeshare with any airline that serves that country. There are two other alliances in which American AL belongs to one and United belongs to the other. Both of these alliances have Arab airlines as members. Are you going to boycott these airlines as well? Do you even know what the alliances are?
June 24th, 2011 at 1:17 pm
Well people…maybe you should stop buying gas and boycott all gas stations because whether you know it or not, some of that gas is from Saudi oil.
Delta is simply offering flights through a code-share to those who want them.
June 24th, 2011 at 1:32 pm
Yet again, I will ask.
Why not just ban Blacks from Delta flights to Israel?
It will avoid issues like the college student who refused to pick up his pants last week on a US Airways flight.
Or the woman on my flight who yelled at a flight attendant because “someone moved her red bag” and held up my flight for 20 minutes while the bag right in front of hers turned out to be… hers.
June 24th, 2011 at 1:35 pm
Wait…Delta isn’t even going to code-share! All this whining is ridiculous. Delta is just allowing people who want to get to Saudi Arabia the ability. Delta isn’t even making money off it!
June 24th, 2011 at 1:58 pm
Your policy of denying boarding on certain flights to people of Jewish descent is horribly racist. Why don’t you have a policy not allowing muslims to board planes in NYC?? I hope the FAA looks at this policy and resticts or eliminates your ability to do business in the United States.
June 24th, 2011 at 2:11 pm
I understand that Jews and those with Jewish sounding names as well as those carrying non- Islamic religious material are barred from flying with your airline; if so then I as well as many others will discontinue flying Delta. I will do whatever it takes to make this policy well known. In a country that represents the highest level of religious and political freedom your corporation failed the opportunity to boycott flights to Saudi Arabia as a means of respecting all those who fought and died to protect the freedoms you enjoy. Your corporation only succeeds in demonstrating that greed dominates your thinking and that the ideals and principles upon which this country was founded are reduced to rubbish, an anathema. I would not be surprised that part of your agenda is to find ways and means to remove all Jews, Christians and those with Jewish sounding names from your employ.
Josef Germaine
Vietnam Veteran
June 24th, 2011 at 2:12 pm
You state “First and foremost, I think one of the most important things to mention here is that Delta does not discriminate nor do we condone discrimination against anyone in regards to age, race, nationality, religion, or gender.” By allowing Saudi Airlines into the SkyTeam you ARE condoning discrimination against people. Either Saudi Airlines change their ways, are removed from the team or you abandon the SkyTeam. If one of these 3 terms are not met, then it shows you aprove of the discrimination your fellow partners persue.
June 24th, 2011 at 2:14 pm
I will not fly Delta anymore.
Shameful behavior.
June 24th, 2011 at 2:25 pm
Ahh, I see — you’ve just chosen to enforce discrimination, you didn’t make the rules. This Atheist won’t be flying Delta again.
June 24th, 2011 at 2:25 pm
First it was the overcharging of the American Servicement for excess baggage who were returning from active duty in Afganistan – now this! Is the Delta Management Team awake?
Not only as a Catholic, do I find this new partnership agreement offensive… but as an American Citizen I find it offensive! How do we facilitate change? By action. Stop flying there! If enough US Airlines find their moral character and fortitude beneath their greed – they can exact change. When enough airlines protest this insanity by choosing not to participate – things will change. Until then? Delta… you are embarassing yourselves and unfortunately, our country. Wake Up.
June 24th, 2011 at 2:29 pm
Hi everyone, Trebor here. Thank you again for all for your concern and questions. We updated this post recently to provide additional clarity on the issue, and I wanted to ensure you were all aware of the new updates. One of the things we clarified is that we don’t operate service to Saudi Arabia and do not codeshare with any airline that serves that country.
Our only agreement with Saudi Air is a standard industry agreement, and we do not plan to codeshare with them. I encourage everyone to read our updates to this blog and let me know if you have any additional questions on our relationship with SkyTeam and Saudi Air.
June 24th, 2011 at 2:33 pm
I have been a fan of Delta airlines for many years and I am shocked at their lack of reaction to Saudi Airlines joining Sky.
The Chaiman of Delta, Daniel Carp, can easily put this issue to rest by annpoincing that Delta airlines will no longer be member of the SKY team as they can not associate with an organization(Sky Team) that admit an airlines that is anti Jewish and anti Christian.
Mr Carp who is Jewish should be more sensitive to this issue than most executives
This will obviously takes leadership. The question is does Mr Carp have the leadership qualities to do what is right.
If he doesn’t it is appropriate for all Americans and American Businesses to find alternative alirlines to Delta.
We should write to Mr Carp and ask him to act.
Mr Carp the ball is in your court.
Mr Carp
June 24th, 2011 at 2:34 pm
Trebor – I’m really confused now. So Delta’s announcement of Saudi Air joining the Skyteam Alliance means nothing? I don’t get it. Why have they joined the Alliance if it doesn’t change anything?
June 24th, 2011 at 2:36 pm
Yes, Trebor – I have a question. You said: “Simply put, no. We don’t intend to codeshare or share any reciprocal benefits (such as frequent flier benefits) with Saudi Air.”
But on the Skyteam FAQ section (URL below), it says:
Does SkyTeam have its own frequent flyer program?
SkyTeam does not have its own separate frequent flyer program. The alliance brings together the frequent flyer programs of its 14 Member airlines, allowing passengers to earn and redeem miles across the global alliance network.
http://www.skyteam.com/en/General-information/FAQ-About-the-SkyTeam-alliance/
CARE TO EXPLAIN THIS CONTRADICTION, TREBOR?
June 24th, 2011 at 2:37 pm
So, to be kristall clear, the “necessary travel documents” I must obtain should prove that I am Jew? or prove that I am not?
June 24th, 2011 at 2:43 pm
I had a bad reaction to this initially as well. But come on people, be fair, Delta doesn’t make the rules. Heck, they aren’t even flying into the country, they are just making it easier for people who want to to book tickets through Delta on partner airlines like Saudi Air. This isn’t even a code-share deal. So stop railing on Delta. Want to blame someone, blame our government that panders to a country that openly discriminates. Blame Saudi Arabia. If you are that against Saudi Arabia’s policy, don’t travel there. It’s that simple. It’s easy to have a knee-jerk reaction of anger to something like this…I did. But now that Delta has said their side, why keep blaming them for something they have no control over? We live in a consumer society…want to be angry at someone, take a look in the mirror and in your driveway/garage at that car you drive!
June 24th, 2011 at 2:45 pm
Just wondering if anyone here even reads the whole board before they post. Or are many just posting their POV’s with out even fact-checking the stories that formed them?
Saudi Arabia, @Delta Airlines, and the “No Jews Allowed” Story (with update): http://bit.ly/jxgtw2 #delta #crisispr #pr
No Jews” Policy – Could This Story Be More Wrong? – http://t.co/Wrd1BTu
United, AA and US Air who have been doing it for years. http://on.wsj.com/mde1RS
Houston Chronicle: “No Jews on Delta flights to Saudi Arabia? A story that took off…without all the facts” http://blog.chron.com/believeitornot/2011/06/no-jews-on-delta-flights-to-saudi-arabia-a-story-that-took-off%e2%80%a6without-all-the-facts/
June 24th, 2011 at 2:55 pm
What a P.R. nightmare and it is not getting any better. I agree that Delta is now saying things, without explaining why, that is conflicting. If Delta is no going to codeshare or exchange frequent flier benefits with SA, then it should make this response:
“Delta is a member of SkyTeam and is one of fourteen votes for membership. While we do not agree with SA’s admission to SkyTeam, we cannot block it. We believe SkyTeam is a valuable alliance for our customers. In response to the addition of SA, Delta will not participate in codeshare flights or frequent flier benefits with this airline. Thus, while SA may be a partner to SkyTeam, it is certainly not a partner of Delta.”
Now, this may be a wholly inaccurate representation of Delta’s position, it very well may be able to block SA’s addition to the alliance as a founding member. But it will not come out and tell everyone the truth. Instead it is issuing horribly inconsistent information.
And while AA, UA and US Air may have been applying SA law for years, I do not believe any have invited the airline most closely associated with those laws into its alliance as a partner.
June 24th, 2011 at 2:55 pm
Delta Blog Defense is Ridiculed…
To its credit, Delta Air Lines posted a blog in response to news that beginning next year Jews and people carrying Bibles will be not be able to fly on code share flights to Saudi Arabia after the Atlanta carrier’s partnership with Saudi Arabian Airlin…
June 24th, 2011 at 2:55 pm
There has been much fact checking on the topics being discussed here. It is true Delta Airlines does not fly to Saudi Arabia. It is true Saudi Arabia has anti-Semitic policies in place. It is true the US Government has done very little to change or even protest these policies. However, before we give Delta a free pass because of the inaction of the US government, we must take action as consumers. Companies will not change their business practices unless as consumers, we give them a reason. The government (as much as it is “of the people for the people”) will not change without large corporate and populous pressure. There is a long history of what happens with complacency, and being complacent only adds to the problem.
June 24th, 2011 at 3:05 pm
I respect people’s decision to boycott Delta for partnering with an airline owned by Saudi Arabia. I want to know if they are they prepared to boycott Marriott, Hilton and Hyatt, U.S. hotel companies that recently agreed to brand hotels in Mecca, a city where non-Muslims are forbidden? Four Seasons is in Riyadh. Starwood’s Westin and Sheraton brands are in Jeddah. I could go on and on.
June 24th, 2011 at 3:12 pm
While Delta doesn’t make the rules, they certainly don’t care about who they hurt, who they leave out, and the consequences of their business deals. No matter that Saudi Arabia has laws like that. The only thing that matters to Delta is the fat check in the bank. Clearly illustrated in the matter with charging soldiers excess baggage fees who are coming home from Iraq. Delta does it because they can. Stay classy, Delta!
June 24th, 2011 at 3:20 pm
Are you aware that your limp excuse is exactly the same as that of Greyhound in Mississippi in the early 60′s? Way back then, every time one of their buses would cross the state-line into Mississippi, all Blacks were forced to the back of the bus.
Section 201(a) of The Civil Rights Act of 1964 reads:
All persons shall be entitled to a full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages and accommodations of any place of public accommodation, as defined in this section, without discrimination or segregation on the grounds of race, color, RELIGION, or national origin.
Section 201(c)(3) further reads:
For the purposes of this section “commerce” means travel, trade, traffic, commerce, transportation, or communication among the several States,… or between any foreign country…
Last time I checked, Delta is an American-flagged carrier engaging in commerce both interstate and in between U.S. and foreign countries. And as such would be in violation of this, our law of the land.
June 24th, 2011 at 3:26 pm
Wow! How do you guys do it! First you anger everyone with the whole military baggage policy and now this! Who is in charge of your public relations? Whoever it is, is obviously overpaid and under-qualified. Either that or your CEO is too dense to listen to their advice.
June 24th, 2011 at 3:26 pm
Let me state 3 things at the outset: 1) I’m Jewish; 2) I have no affiliation with or love for Delta or any other airline; 3) not only do I have no great love for Saudi Arabia or any other Arab country that supports and encourages anti Semitism, repression and hate, I wouldn’t have a big problem if we turned a few million square miles of the Mideast outside of Israel into a parking lot. If that makes me a barbarian, so be it.
Having said all that, I think boycotting and lambasting Delta for allegedly cozying up to the Saudis is way too easy.
If you look at the major airline alliances, virtually every major carrier belongs to one that includes airlines serving Saudi Arabia or the UAE which has similar discriminatory policies. JetBlue, for example, has an interline agreement with Emirates, which is owned by the government of Dubai. Guess who’s also part of this alliance? El Al. (If you doubt this, go to JetBlue’s website)
The real question here, which I think most are missing, is how much distance does there have to be between us as consumers and the perpetrators of hate in order to make us feel comfortable? After all, as others have pointed out, those of us who rely on cars, buses, trucks – e.g. all of us, in some fashion – are already in bed with the Saudis. It’s an accident of geology that some nasty people are sitting on a pile of something the rest of the world wants – the question is how much are we really willing to sacrifice to sever that relationship? Because if it weren’t for that gooey black stuff, you can bet America’s relationship with these countries would be about the same as it is with North Korea.
June 24th, 2011 at 3:31 pm
Good post, JGfromOC.
U.S. companies are going to follow the money, whether it’s Saudi Arabia or China (not exactly the bastion of freedom). Delta isn’t all that special.
By the way, anybody angry at the U.S. government for allowing Saudi Arabian Airlines to fly to the U.S.? It’s a complicated world.
June 24th, 2011 at 3:50 pm
I wonder if a country would not allow blacks to fly into their country or on their planes, would delta be a business partner with them? I personally will do my best not to fly with a company that supports anti-semitism to any degree. Like inGermany they kept silent. I will also do my best to convince others not to fly delta. Will use my points and be done with them. When Standard Oil sold high octane fuel to Hitler, it just about doing business. Delats can use whatever lingo to dance around the subject but they are supporting this type of racists. By the way, christians look out, you are next!
June 24th, 2011 at 4:21 pm
What century are you living in? Is it the 21st century or the 7th century?
You know, in the 7th century, when people traveled by donkey or horse, and slavery was common and accepted, as was rape, pillaging and forced conversions, as well as the most vile forms of racism and subjugation, sure, it would make sense for the owner of a large fleet of donkeys to do business with the master kingdom so as not to risk your lives.
Today in the 21st century, only seven decades after half a million americans lost their lives defending our freedom to life despite our color, race, creed or religion, you embrace the 7th century kingdom? Are you for real?
You use pathetic excuses that the fact that they are 7th century antediluvian robots is NOT acceptable. Wake UP! They think that they are the MASTER race. Have you read the Qu’ran? They think that they are superior to any non muslim. You know it is absurd. They ban building churches or synagogues. They ban gays. They ban freedom for women.
What makes this different than if you had decided to do business with the 3rd Reich? Or you had decided to do business with a country run by the KKK? There is NO DIFFERENCE. There is NO Excuse!
You have trashed the memory of millions of young american men and women who have died defending your freedoms and you are willing to sell your soul to the devil. Look, we all understand economics and the lure of money especially in a recession. But you will not come out of this better than when you went in. All evil is destined to erode. Some take longer than others. But there should be no question in your mind that the racist policies against Gays, Christians, Jews, Hindus, Asians, Phillipinas, Indonesians are evil.
They are brainwashed by a 7th century book. They are indoctrinated at an early age so it is hard for them to ever entertain another idea, especially when questioning their faith will land them 6 feet under!
Would you use a 7th century guide for how to build an airplane or fly one? There is nothing that you would use from the 7th century for guidance. Clearly, the last world war was to save the global population from Nazism which is no different than fundamental Islam. Just read the book yourself! They believe it literally.
Saudi Arabia has their wealth from prehistoric oil deposits. They did not create this wealth with modern ideas or modern values. They are still stuck in the past. One day in the future, obviously, they will wake up, but in the meantime, their policies are as racist as you can be. Sure they speak of spiritual love and ecstacy, for muslims. You have to be severely blind or ignorant to not know how racist and chauvinistic their society is.
Partnering with Saudi Arabia and excusing their policies with the shield of the ‘Skyteam’ should make you as nauseous as it makes your former fliers who have already commented here. You have partnered with the same mind as you would find in the 3rd Reich, with the KKK, with every wife beater, every slave owner in history.
I have cancelled my Delta skymiles account. I will never fly Delta again. I will never recommend Delta again. I will speak about this to all the people that I know, I will continue to speak and encourage everyone I know to never fly Delta.
I want to fly a global airline, yes. But I want to fly a 21st century global airline! I want to fly an airline that has common sense and respects the fact that the greatness of America is FREEDOM from the exact racism that Saudi Arabia represents!
I will fly a modern, freedom loving, 21st century airline, not an airline who is willing to bow to 7th century drivel.
I would not care if Delta was the only airline left on the planet, I would rather ride a horse.
You better take a long hard look at yourselves and your management team, their intelligence, their sensitivity and exactly whose side are they on, the freedom expressed in our constitution or the racism and slavery heaved up on every page of the racist Koran!
Obviously it is not the fault of muslims that their ancient book is full of racism, just as it is not the fault of christians or jews for the same. All the books are filled with it cause those were the norms of the times. The problem is partnering with a country that actually BELIEVES it!
So, wake up , do yourself a favor, get a management team meeting together and think clearly about who your friends are and which friends do you really want. I hope you choose the path of freedom and reject the path of submission to this generations Master Race.
June 24th, 2011 at 4:37 pm
You’re right eehsalumni (post #61)..In addition to all the individual posts about this on facebook, there is now a page to boycott Delta over it:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Boycott-Delta-Airlines-for-complying-to-Saudi-Arabias-racist-laws/114105805347950?sk=wall
Delta needs to rethink this decision ASAP!
And JonWP (#85), why would you question the validity of this story when Delta itself is not disputing it. This page, which includes posts by Trevor B of Delta, addresses this decision and their rationale for making it.
June 24th, 2011 at 4:51 pm
I wasn’t aware that some thought airlines controlled the visa policies of destination countries. That would be pretty convenient.
For me, I hope Saudi Airlines and many others join SkyTeam and that I get full miles when flying with them.
June 24th, 2011 at 4:57 pm
As usual, almost everyone here supports a simple solution to a very complex problem. Because if you really want to disconnect from the racist Saudis, there’s ultimately only one way to do that – stop buying their oil. And please, don’t tell us how that’s not possible, because it sure as heck would be possible – but it would be painful. And everyone’s big on solutions to everything that don’t involve pain. Financial pain, lifestyle changes…yeah, all that. That’s what real change requires.
Sure, boycott Delta – there are plenty of other airlines to fly. How about demanding that Congress mandate that in 5 years, every new car gets at least 100 mpg? The technology exists – even the car companies acknowledge that. But that would actually involve s-a-c-r-i-f-i-c-e. The resulting cars would be smaller, and lighter (meaning less safe) – and they’d cost a LOT more. So is that worth it? Are all the indignant folks ready to make those concessions? ‘Cause that’s what it’s gonna take to get out of bed with the devil.
Most people understand that freedom isn’t free. Unfortunately, freedom from dealing with unsavory regimes whose policies are reprehensible isn’t free either.
June 24th, 2011 at 5:08 pm
Unbelievable. Such poor job at PR handling. Who cares about visa regulations in Saudi Arabia? The point to the story is that Delta is associated with a discrimination policy by a potential partner airline. I am so tired of “polished” PR that always skirts the real issue.
June 24th, 2011 at 5:20 pm
I am a frequent flyer on Delta and qualify in their elite Gold status. Yesterday’s announcement by DELTA to try to explain how and why they will comply with Saudi Arabia’s regulations that ban Jews from entering their country is a very poor management and ethical decision. While it may deliver short term monetary gains for DELTA, it is also a slippery slope with a downward spiral that leads us into further darkness and condones/approves the Saudi’s discriminatory policy.
At the same time that we are protesting Delta’s new announcement, please don’t be shocked to learn that many of our US Fortune 1000 companies that sell billions and billions of dollars worth of aerospace, defense, infrastructure, telecommunications , power generation equipment and every other big ticket item you can think of, also comply with these same discriminatory rules and regulations. The US multinationals cannot (officially) send Jewish employees to visit/work at their Saudi operations, and these companies typically comply with these rules.
For Delta to throw up their hands and state that they are only following Saudi law is a very weak and shameful defense. This is not the first nor the last time that we will see these barbaric rules imposed on US companies, and Delta needs to recognize that they must stand up and reject these types of hateful demands. Delta must lead by example.
In 1986 the US congress passed the Anti-Apartheid Act which incorporated the Sullivan Principles into its legislation, and was a law that was the first United States anti-apartheid legislation. The act was initiated in reaction to the plight of blacks in South Africa and demanded the end of apartheid. The legislation was passed in 1986 and mposed sanctions against South Africa and stated five preconditions for lifting the sanctions, including establishing a timetable for the elimination of apartheid laws and the release of then political prisoner Nelson Mandela. That legislation banned all new U.S. trade and investment in South Africa and was a catalyst for similar sanctions in Europe and Japan. Direct air links were also banned, including South African Airways flights to U.S. airports. The withdrawal of operations from major corporations and the loss of confidence by the global banking community caused South Africa’s economy to go into a deep recession. The law also required various U.S. departments and agencies to suppress funds and assistance to the then pro-apartheid government. This Anti-Apartheid Act legislation eventually aided the fall of the apartheid regime. Perhaps the US government needs to deploy a similar policy as it relates to Saudi Arabia’s laws.
We recognize that Saudi Arabia is an important economic and political ally of the US, and our government historically treads very lightly when it comes to criticizing any Saudi policies – no matter how barbaric they may be, and despite the fact that many of the terrorist hijackers who attacked our country on 9/11 came from Saudi Arabia.
On a similar vein, in the 70’s the Arab nations developed the “Arab Boycott” which was created to wage economic war against Israel. The Arab Boycott actually required that as acondition precedent to doing business in the middle east (i.e. Arab countries) that foreign companies had to attest to the fact that a) the goods and services being offered had no connection to Israel, and b) the companies had to attest to the fact that they were not engaged in any business with Israel. If those tests were not passed, then the business could not be consummated. In reaction to that Arab Boycott, in 1977 the Congress of the United States passed a law that fined American companies which cooperated with the Arab Boycott against Israel. This was an example where the US government took a moral stand and declared that it was illegal for US companies to comply with Arab countries demands to further ostracize Israel thru economic boycott. Coming back to DELTA, clearly, the Saudi ban on allowing Jews to to visit their country is just another way of grouping all Jews into the same pile as Israelis. Supposing the Saudi ban was against all blacks, or Catholics, or Buddhists, or gays, or gypsies, and the list goes on and on etc. etc.
What can we do?
1) We can stand up and request our congress to (as they did with the Anti-Apartheid and Anti-Arab Boycott legislation), to adopt legislation that would ban business with Saudi Arabia until they ended their discriminatory policies. I am not sure that Congress would adopt such a policy, and at the same time I doubt the Saudis would care. But we need to try.
2) We need to show Delta that just as Delta is free to business with hateful regimes, we are free to take our business elsewhere, until such time that they put ethics above prostituting themselves for dollars.
June 24th, 2011 at 5:28 pm
Hello all,
As a Jewish American, and–in the interest of full transparency and disclosure–a former Delta employee and current Delta Diamond Medallion, I must say, I am perplexed by the furor over Delta’s alliance with Saudi Arabian Airlines. While I empathize with the perspectives presented herein, I pragmatically wonder why Delta has been targeted with such vitriol for doing business in a very important sector of the world. My rationale:
- The US imports 1 million barrels of Saudi oil every day of the year. This is third, behind only Canada and Mexico, in terms of oil imports. How many of us have Saudi oil in our cars right now? I would wager every one of us.
- The US has exported $4.2B and imported $12.8B in goods to/from Saudi Arabia in the first 4 months of 2011. How many US jobs are directly or indirectly dependent on this trade relationship?
- There are more than 360 joint ventures (a much closer business tie than the loosely coupled alliance linkage between Delta and Saudia) between Saudi and US companies which are currently active. To follow arguments presented in previous posts, each of these is guilty by association.
Like it or not, US commerce is inextricably linked to Saudi Arabia, and while we may take issue with the (numerous and well documented) human rights issues faced by the Kingdom, we must acknowledge that the economic and political fates of our nations are inextricably linked. When coupled with the fact that Saudi Arabia is a (relatively) stable political environment in a region fraught with instability, it’s undeniable that the country is an important partner to the US. While this does not justify or excuse oppressive practices, the US (and Israel, and all Western countries) have a long and established history of tolerating human rights infractions in the interest of geopolitical stability. While we may find the prohibition of Israeli passport holders to enter the country, or the prohibition of women to operate a motor vehicle morally offensive, the US has never put principle ahead of pragmatic considerations in crafting our global alliances. All that’s to say: Why is Delta being singled out–quite unfairly, I would argue–given the company’s modest and rational need, driven by customers and shareholders, to serve all regions of the world that American companies and citizens demand?
Thanks,
Josh Weiss
June 24th, 2011 at 5:33 pm
I employ 54 people in Colorado, and our company’s travel agent has booked almost exclusively with Delta because of our business in the SE. One of our 3 Jewish employees brought this to our attention. We have read your “statement” that purports to “explain” this situation, and find it to be not compelling and find you to be despicable. We have instructed our corporate travel agent to immediately stop booking with Delta, and my family has canceled our frequent flier program with Delta. I have petitioned the Denver Chamber of Commerce, of which I am an officer, to present a proposal next week for a Chamber boycott of Delta. You should all be ashamed of yourself, and now you’ll be a little poorer, too.
June 24th, 2011 at 6:18 pm
Whomever is running Delta Airlines needs to be replaced pronto while you still have any business left. First you pull that stupid stunt charging military service people returning from duty excess baggage fees, and now you’re partnering with Saudi Air, an Airline that discriminates against Jews! Oh that’s right – it’s just their policys that forces you to discriminate. You must be out of your mind! I have often chosen Delta Airline many times in the past for my flights both domestically and internationally. NO MORE! You people are just idiots!!!
June 24th, 2011 at 6:40 pm
http://www.amsterdampost.nl/amsterdam-op-3-juli-a-s-podium-voor-het-tweede-islamitische-rijk/
On July 3rd 2011 Amsterdam is giving a podium for the second Islamic Empire while in that same Amsterdam they (Islamic lovers) tried to condemn Wilders for his Islam critism.
Wake up Delta Airlines & Skyteam and get rid of this worthless contract with the Saudis. You will lose a lot of customers who will never return!
June 24th, 2011 at 6:42 pm
Why is Saudi Arabian Air allowed to be a member of “Sky Team” in the first place? That is what Delta should be asking.
Oh yeah, “it’s the oil, stupid”.
This is a country which supports terrorism, murder, adultery, slavery and is in complete and total violation of basic human rights.
Get your jet fuel somewhere else.
June 24th, 2011 at 6:45 pm
Delta must be grounded until they purge this unlawful policy.
Concerning the imposition by Saudi Arabia on Delta Airlines their policy of Jews excluded from flying on Delta;
How long will it take an American lawyer to file a federal discrimination in accommodation complaint against thus banning ALL Delta Airline flights originating in the United States. The U.S. federal law forbids discrimination based on religion and/or race:
http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/42/usc_sec_42_00012182—-000-.html
It’s not that complicated.
Delta should be grounded until they resolve this unlawful policy.
June 24th, 2011 at 6:48 pm
And while I’m thinking about it. Who goes to Arabia anyway?
Pilgrims , workers and military ( who have their own transportation). Is there really that much profit there?
As a woman , I can’t go without wearing a complete face covering, I can’t drive , can’t go without a man, can’t work or practice my Christian faith there. Arabia under the Saud’s is the source of much of the evil in this world.
Really, Delta? Really? I’m boycotting you for this.
June 24th, 2011 at 6:51 pm
Sorry … I cited the wrong law above.
Delta is violating the U.S. statute:
29 C.F.R. PART 1605—DISCRIMINATION BECAUSE OF RELIGION
http://law.justia.com/cfr/title29/29-4.1.4.1.6.html
I’m surprised with all the legal muscle Delta has they adopted a patently illegal policy because Saudis bribed them to do it.
Ground Delta!
June 24th, 2011 at 7:21 pm
It’s pretty obvious with just a little bit of research that ANY restrictions for ANY passenger are through the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and not through the airlines. That being said, any anger should not be placed on the airline’s policy but because that airline has a partner that flies to Saudi Arabia. Delta does not codeshare flights with Saudi Airlines but they’re Skyteam partners.
So if you are going to boycott Delta, you may as well also boycott American Airlines (since their OneWorld partners British Airways, Royal Jordanian, and Cathay Pacific all fly to Saudi Arabia) as well as United/US Airways/Continental (since their Star Alliance partners Lufthansa, British Midland, EgyptAir, Turkish Airlines all fly to Riyadh).
June 24th, 2011 at 7:50 pm
The statement that Delta doesn’t discriminate and the mention of African Americans is a comparison of apples and oranges for this blog. Delta doesn’t discriminate against paying passengers. It’s all about the money. Travel to Atlanta and interview the African American employees for a truly interesting documentary as to whether there is discrimination and your blog will tell another story about Delta Air Lines. Ask the executives how often qualified African American are targeted for demotions or dismissals. Ask the executives how often discrimination is used to hand-pick non qualified employees over qualified African Americans. This comment is only intended to state “does not discriminate based on race…” is not a true statement. You haven’t spoken to the right people. If you interviewed anyone, they were probably hand selected. How about some random interviews and some numbers on African Americans in management positions at the world headquarters or campus.
June 24th, 2011 at 8:10 pm
Can you at least post some of the analysis Delta used when modeling the net economic impact of welcoming your new anti-Christian and anti-Jewish airline partner?
I think some of the assumptions may be a little off…
June 24th, 2011 at 8:23 pm
Bye bye, Delta. It’s sad that you will soon be joining the ranks of all of the other airlines who thought they were too big to fail – but failed nevertheless. Your policy is a slap in the face to all Americans who have fought and died to foster the freedoms we enjoy. I will NEVER fly Delta again, and I will tell anyone with ears that your airline is a sham.
June 24th, 2011 at 8:38 pm
You have sacrificed all of our principles that Americans have fought and died for here and abroad for an easy buck. Your song and dance sounds like Nazi sympathizers during WWII. Have your papers ready sounds very much like what was required of the Jews at that time it just sends chills up my spine. Let’s not forget the Saudii’s complete lack of women’s rights. You should rename your slogan ” Keep climbing over the dead bodies of women executed for driving in Saudi Arabia”. Bet your PR hacks didn’t think about that one Einstein! I will drive a car paddle a kyak or just not go before I fly your airline again!
June 24th, 2011 at 8:55 pm
I would like to say – sorry for all the extremely negative comments you are getting. My decision whether to fly delta or not has not been influenced by any of this. Though I don’t agree with Saudi Arabia’s Visa policies, I don’t believe that the right response is to make it impossible for anyone to travel there. Best wishes to everyone.
June 25th, 2011 at 12:02 am
Ignorance abounds.
For starters, yes it’s true that Delta does not have anything other than a standard interline agreement Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAA going forward, sorry to South African Airways aficionados). However, it’s also somewhat disingenuous of Delta to distance themselves from SAA since the airline was slated to join SkyTeam in 2012. That being said, Delta is one of 14 members of SkyTeam and while they are a key partner in the alliance, they don’t call the shots.
Second, most of you show a complete misunderstanding of what a visa is. As Americans citizens, we can visit a number of countries without obtaining a visa in advance. I think it would be fair to say that the vast majority of Americans don’t travel internationally, and those that do tend to visit tourist destinations in Europe, Mexico, Canada, Caribbean etc. These countries want Americans to visit and spend their tourist dollars, so they don’t require us to get a visa. However, this is not a two-way street because the U.S. requires nationals of most countries to obtain a visa in advance. Google ‘visa waiver program’ and you will see a list of the 36 countries, whose citizens can travel to the U.S., under most circumstances, without a visa. They’re mostly in Western Europe, as well as developed countries in Australasia. In order to obtain a business/tourist visa to the U.S. for someone who doesn’t qualify on VWP, an applicant has to demonstrate that they have sufficient familial, professional, and monetary ties to their country of residence and that their reason for traveling to the U.S. is legitimate and convincing. They do this in a face-to-face interview with a U.S. Consular Officer at one our Embassies or Consulates abroad. While I won’t make any judgments about Saudi visa policy, using the logic that many of you have used, the U.S. discriminates against poor people from Mexico, Nigeria, Argentina, India, etc. ad nauseum, and yes, in a way we do. Are you up in arms over that policy as well? Will you threaten to boycott Delta because they deny boarding to a Mexican citizen shows up to check-in for a for a DL flight to the U.S. without having obtained a visa? Israel doesn’t allow Saudi passport holders to get visas, so will you threaten to boycott Delta if the airline turns away a Saudi passport holder on a Delta flight to Tel Aviv? I’m skeptical. The Israeli passport holder in question either didn’t do his homework, which is the obligation of the passenger. Either that or he was trying to provoke an incident. I can’t speak to the laws of Saudi Arabia, but if Delta boards a Mexican passenger bound for the U.S. with improper travel documents, U.S. Customs and Border Protection can force Delta to transport the passenger back to their origin on the next available flight, even if that means bumping a revenue passenger. Also, CBP can fine Delta for thousands of dollars for allowing the passenger on without the proper credentials.
Many of you act as though Delta shouldn’t facilitate anyone wishing to travel to Saudi Arabia because of their policies. So doesn’t that infringe on my right as an American to travel freely, keeping in mind that other countries have no obligation to let me in. We have strong business and governmental ties with Saudi Arabia. If you’re so discontent with the country’s visa policies that you are willing to stop flying Delta, a business that is really caught in the middle of this situation, why don’t you stop filling up your gas tanks? There’s a reasonable likelihood that it contains Saudi crude?
This situation could’ve really come up with any airline. If a passenger is traveling on American, United, or any other airline from the U.S. to Europe for transit to another airline, the carrier is obligated to determine whether you have the valid travel documents for the final destination and all transit points. American, United, and other carriers also interline with SAA.
I’m still disappointed with Delta for its timid handling of matters like this, but I guess I can’t really blame them. You’re all so fast to whip up an electronic lynch mob and companies like Delta are forced to backtrack when they haven’t done anything wrong. This is similar to the recent excess baggage fee fiasco with the U.S. service members. Delta agents were following written policies that were clearly available on its website. The troops’ travel orders indicated that they could take more bags than Delta permitted under the free allowance. That Delta had in place for service members on orders at the time. Under the circumstances, the troops could’ve filed travel vouchers and been reimbursed for their expenditures. They turned a non-issue into a national sensation by putting up a YouTube video over the incident. Delta was basically forced to apologize and backtrack based on the misinformed public outrage.
Nothing is going to change though. News agencies will continue to pick up on stories like this, often based on a viral postings or video uploads on sites like Facebook and YouTube. People like you will get pissy and indignant, even though you don’t fully understand the situation. I love social networking, technology, and the internet, but the drawback is that it allows bad information and ignorance to propagate.
June 25th, 2011 at 3:20 am
Wow! When I saw this I couldn’t believe that Delta was in the news one more time for treating people unfairly. First, charging our service men and woman for their extra luggage – extra luggage, I might add, that contained items needed while they were away protecting us, and now agreeing to partner with an airline that openly discriminates against Jews! I can’t believe that Delta is moving backwards in time. People of all races and religions have fought long enough for equal rights and respect, yet Delta is willing to ignore this just to increase their global market. I can tell you that if you go through with this, I will never fly this airlines again and I will make sure that my family and friends don’t either. And not because I am Jewish and have an Israel stamp in my passport, but because it is immoral and I would never support any organization that discriminated against anyone!
I don’t know who your PR team is but they need a reality check. I would seriously question what their motives are and where their loyalty lies because they do not portray Delta as an American company.
June 25th, 2011 at 5:19 am
I must say, I am shocked at all of the ignorant replies this post has generated. After reading several of them, it is clear to me that many people posting here have ZERO understanding of the airline business & the intention of Trebor’s post. Several points:
1. This entire media storm has been created out of thin air and has absolutely no substance to it. Saudi Airlines is joining the Skyteam Alliance which Delta is a part of. Royal Jordanian is a part of the Oneworld Alliance which American Airlines is a part of. Egyptair is a part of Star Alliance which United & US Airways are a part of. There is nothing to see here people. Nothing. All of these alliances have member airlines that operate into the KSA (including DL’s partner Air France which has been Delta’s partner for years).
2. Visas are given by countries, not by airlines. If a Jew (or ANYONE) has a valid visa to enter the KSA and is utilizing a Delta flight as part of their journey, I guarantee 100% that Delta would have zero issues allowing that person to board their airplane. Brazil requires that US Citizens have a visa prior to arrival. If I show up at the airport to board a Delta flight without a visa, they will not allow me to board. This has absolutely NOTHING to do with any discrimination on Delta’s part. I was once traveling from Amsterdam to Johannesburg, via Paris and when I arrived in Paris I was not allowed to board the flight to Jo’burg because I did not have a fully blank page in my passport. Sounds ridiculous, right? Well, as it turns out South Africa requires that you have 1 fully blank page in your passport. Air France was simply enforcing the rules that the country of destination requires that they enforce. Airlines have been enforcing government imposed entry rules since the beginning of aviation and that will never change.
3. Delta’s airplanes do NOT fly to the KSA & Delta does NOT place it’s flight numbers on any flights to the KSA. As Trebor has stated, this will not change with the addition of Saudi Airlines to Skyteam. Additionally, it seems that Delta will not seek a FF relationship with Saudi despite their Skyteam membership, again as Trebor has stated. In short, with regard to the operation of Delta Air Lines, NOTHING is changing! Period. Delta will today deny boarding to people of all races/religions/etc/etc because they do not carry the proper authority to enter their country of destination, not because of their race/religion/etc/etc.
4. Delta is not in charge of the Skyteam Alliance. They cannot solely decide who joins & who doesn’t. They can only decide if they will continue to be a member themselves. I see no reason for them to leave this alliance when they have publicly stated that they will not cooperate with Saudi in any way (at the beginning of this post!). If they do not codeshare and they do not share any reciprocal benefits, then they are not partners! The major airline alliances facilitate marketing arrangements between each of the member airlines and if Delta will not be participating in these alliances with Saudi, then what is the issue?
Signed,
A Delta Diamond member who is a Christian and travels with a Bible, who has nothing but the utmost respect for Jewish people and people of all religions, who has just left Israel and cannot wait to go back, who is a conservative like most of the publications that posted these factually incorrect reports, and who is simply embarrassed at how fast the internet can distribute such poor journalism and how many people will immediately believe it.
June 25th, 2011 at 6:46 am
It is very sad the choices that Delta makes. I can say this I will never fly Delta Airline again and I will be canceling my card with them. I rather pay more money with another airline than fly Delta.
I think it is time for Delta to wake up and smell the coffee and realize that this is a very bad decision and a slap in the face to all Christian and Jewish people all over. I think it is time to open a Facebook and Twitter page about this and let the world know that Delta does not care for its Christian and Jewish clients and all they think about is there pocket.
June 25th, 2011 at 7:27 am
Dear Delta,
I am a Diamond Frequent Flier and am on your planes at least 4 times per week. Unfortunately, I am no longer going to be loyal to you. Your recent alliance with a blatant discriminatory regime is not consistent with your track record. What the heck is going on?
As a business person I have learned its ok to admit a mistake. Your customers appreciate honesty and integrity. Your current public response to the blatant discriminatory actions of your newest alliance partner is not well thought out. This public outrage will not pass until you do the right thing.
I will be starting a public campaign at every airport and on every plane to educate your customers. I expect more from you. You have disappointed me and others.
I am writing United and USAirways and joining them. Its been a good ride, but you have blown it. Shame on you and your management team.
Its not too late to right this wrong.
June 25th, 2011 at 8:02 am
There is a difference between partnering with Saudia and other airlines but it’s worth remembering that all of the US majors are part of alliances that fly to Saudi Arabia and they all apply the same rules – they all “discriminate”. I think Delta (or perhaps more accurately SkyTeam) has made a mistake here but I wouldn’t avoid Delta because of their relationship with Saudia. There are much better reasons for avoiding them relating to general customer service issues.
June 25th, 2011 at 8:29 am
I agree with the complaints posted here and remain troubled by Delta’s official statement. I have sent the following to various destinations within Delta – wonder, if I’ll receive any return emails or a letter? Will post here, if I do.
** I am trying to figure out the truth behind the Delta Airlines & Saudi Arabia Airlines agreement and future plans. In this week’s official statement, Delta Airlines said, “Delta does not operate service to Saudi Arabia and does not codeshare with any airline on flights to that country. Delta does not intend to codeshare or share reciprocal benefits, such as frequent flier benefits, with Saudi Arabian Airlines, which we have confirmed with SkyTeam, an Amsterdam-based 14-member global airline alliance.” However, I see on your website (Corporate Report) two flight lines from Atlanta that do appear to service Saudi Arabia. Please clarify.
The other point of confusion for me is this part of the official statement, “Delta’s only agreement with Saudi Arabian Airlines is a standard industry interline agreement, which allows passengers to book tickets on multiple carriers, similar to the standard interline agreements American Airlines, US Airways and Alaska Airlines have with Saudi Arabian Airlines.” What exactly does this mean? The statement is unclear and potentially troubling. Doesn’t Delta want to make a marketing case that the airline is distinct from its competitors – possibly for ethical reasons? This might be a prime opportunity for competitive advantage instead of resorting to this confusing mumbo-jumbo that leaves readers with the impression that Delta’s position is “the other airlines do it, so should we.” **
June 25th, 2011 at 10:12 am
I for one, will DEFINATELY not be flying Delta again until you change your racist policy and let all Jews and Christians fly wherever you fly. If you go to bed with the devil, you wake up with the devil ~ there’s no changing that. With this idiotic partnership from hell that you are trying to enact you are showing the world that you would have had the same alliance with the Nazi’s in WWII, regardless of how many Jews would have been murdered. Delta is no better than the Nazi’s and you all haven’t learned a thing from history! You should be disbanded and brought to your knees through bankruptcy! No true American would fly on any of your planes again! Your true colors are showing to the world!
June 25th, 2011 at 10:18 am
Delta has aligned with Jew hating muslims.
My family will NEVER fly Delta again.
Furthermore, I’m going to ask EVERYONE
I know to stop flying Delta.
DELTA IS A VERY VERY BAD AIRLINE.
IF YOU LOVE AMERICA, BOYCOTT DELTA.
June 25th, 2011 at 10:20 am
I see my last comment is awaiting moderation
which means that it will not be posted.
Since that is the case i’m going on various
blog sites to encourage people to boycott
Delta.
June 25th, 2011 at 10:42 am
Delta prides itself as a gay friendly airline. I’m curious how many of your own employees would be banned from those flights? Are you going to allow openly homosexual passengers onto those Saudi flights while you deny openly practicing Christians and Jews?
You can issue all the it’s not our fault press releases all you want. The public will vote with their pocketbook. This will spread and revenue will suffer far greater than any benefit Delta’s senior management expected.
Hello Saturday Night Live, there’s a great skit waiting to be written with this story!
June 25th, 2011 at 11:30 am
Delta you need to fix this. I have been flying Delta for as long as I remember and I hate to see all these customers and frequent flyers leaving Delta. If this continues, there will be nobody flying Delta anymore. So, would you rather be partners with Saudia Arabia Airline or have people flying on your planes? You have to really start thinking about whether this partnership is really worth it or not. I have never flown any other airline except for Delta and I really don’t want that to change.
June 25th, 2011 at 11:44 am
This is a disgraceful and extremely destructive decision by Delta. Delta is legitimizing a country that discriminates against Jews and Israelis by doing business with them. If Delta “claims” to not discriminate against people, they are blatantly allowing this discrimination to occur under their own watch and business dealings. Disgraceful!!
If Delta doesn’t recant their decision to add Saudi Arabia to SkyTeam soon, I will never fly Delta Airlines ever again, and will spread this news to every person I know who is considering taking a trip by air. Delta is making a grave mistake and is sowing their own economic destruction if they go through with this decision to include the racist and oppressive country of Saudi Arabia into SkyTeam. This story is getting bigger and bigger each day. You should be deeply ashamed of yourselves!!
I hope you make the correct decision, or else your business is destined to lose billions from people boycotting and suing your discriminatory airline.
The American people will not accept a Sharia-compliant airline. Period.
June 25th, 2011 at 12:09 pm
I was deeply disturbed to read about Delta’s upcoming alliance with Saudi Arabian Airlines.
Given the religious intolerance of the Saudi government, the origin of many of the September 11th terrorists, and the continuing threats to our nation including Northwest flight 253 on 25 December 2009; it is impossible for me to understand why Delta’s Board of Directors would even consider such an arrangement.
Rest assured that my family will not be traveling on any Delta flight that even hints of a code share with Saudi Arabian Airlines.
And should I be concerned that Delta will relax its security measures on all flights for political correctness because of its new Saudi friendship?
I hope that Delta and its Board will show some backbone, listen to its United States customers, and abandon this ill-advised decision.
/s/
a Delta Airlines Million Miler
June 25th, 2011 at 12:37 pm
SIMPLY PUT …. I have other choices. You make your choice and I will make mine. Good Bye Delta.
June 25th, 2011 at 2:42 pm
Well how far Delta has fallen from its humble beginnings in Monroe, LA.
I imagine there are more than a few spinning in their graves for sure over the new PC direction of the company. If I owned any stock it would be gone now that’s for sure.
I worked for Delta back when I was a young man and had quite a bit of respect for the ethics, and general straight forwardness of the American ideals that it operated under.
NOT ANY MORE.. I WILL NEVER FLY DELTA AGAIN……. PERIOD.
DELTA CAN WALK IT BACK AS MANY TIMES AS THEY LIKE TO NO AVAIL FOR ME………THEY ARE TOAST. NOW AND FOREVER. SEEYA.
June 25th, 2011 at 4:13 pm
WHAT A DISGRACE THAT DELTA MANAGEMENT WOULD GIVE INTO THE RACIST DEMANDS OF SHARIA LAW AND THE SAUDI ISLAMISTS–DELTA’S EXCUSE SAYING THEY DO NOT DISCRIMINATE IS A LIE, AS IT IS DELTA ENFORCING SHARIA LAW FOR THE SAUDIS–OTHERWISE THEY WOULD HAVE NEVER ENTERED INTO SUCH AN AGREEMENT! DELTA SHOULD BE PROSECUTED AND FINED AND BOYCOTTED BY ALL FREEDOM LOVING AMERICANS!
June 25th, 2011 at 5:35 pm
Wow, each day I wonder what new insane news I will read. This one was tops for the week, I think. Delta has pooped in their messkit, at least for me. I will never, EVER use your airline again, and will post this story to Facebook, and tell everyone I know. Your PC bullcrap that you trying to smooth the issue over with, holds no merit. Call it what it is…this is discrimination at its best, and a cowardly copout response to the public outrage. By remaining in any type of agreement with this airline, you are condoning what they stand for…racism and discrimination to the Jewish people. We have quickly forgotten the lessons history had to teach us all the hard way, they are making rounds again. You are the Germans who stood by and watched as the Nazis executed their discrmination and crime against humanity, and claimed they just didn’t know. May this come back and bite you in the butt, Delta.
June 25th, 2011 at 5:36 pm
“”
I had a bad reaction to this initially as well. But come on people, be fair, Delta doesn’t make the rules. Heck, they aren’t even flying into the country, they are just making it easier for people who want to to book tickets through Delta on partner airlines like Saudi Air. This isn’t even a code-share deal. So stop railing on Delta. Want to blame someone, blame our government that panders to a country that openly discriminates. Blame Saudi Arabia. If you are that against Saudi Arabia’s policy, don’t travel there. It’s that simple. It’s easy to have a knee-jerk reaction of anger to something like this…I did. But now that Delta has said their side, why keep blaming them for something they have no control over? We live in a consumer society…want to be angry at someone, take a look in the mirror and in your driveway/garage at that car you drive!
“”
My answer is this: I can blame myself, or the government, or some foreign country, but it hard to boycott myself, our government, or the Saudis. Delta has made easy for many people to express their anger at the hierocracy and injustice of Saudi Arabia. That society is the enemy of liberty, nothing less.
I know that other US based companies have done the same, but I don’t spend all my time researching this issue.
Thank you Delta for making it easier which airline I will choose to fly in the future.
June 25th, 2011 at 6:29 pm
So far today I’ve convinced 33 people to stop flying
with Delta. Hopefully i’ll do better tomorrow.
Break your connection with muslims.
June 25th, 2011 at 6:48 pm
Trebor. Thank you very much for the clear reply. There is no need to further respond to this idle chatter coming from people who feel that they could run an airline, oral a moral society, better.
We all know that every country had demons in their closet. Using the ill logic of all these bloggers, several foreign airlines should stop their service to the United States as well. We are not always the most open country, either. You may lose a chunk of over sensitive religious zealots, however, you will earn a bigger chunk of business opening your route structure up to cities where we may choose to fly. I myself am blocked from many countries based on personal things in my life, from working at many jobs in the US, many churches, etc. yet I will still not complain.
Once again, keep up the good work.
June 25th, 2011 at 7:23 pm
I do not feel Delta Airlines has done anything ethically or morally wrong. This is another case of a media release being picked apart and blown out of proportion and especially so in this case since the details have become very distorted to those that don’t make a habit of seeking the facts first. Earlier, some poor Delta employee told a soldier that only four bags were allowed for free. Now , it’s been upped to five. I guess the next person will complain about only being allowed five bags and the free limit will be upped to six. You can’t win. This thing will blow over when persons find out that there are a larger percentage of right handed employees than left handed. What will Delta do then. I am a offended left hander !
In the past, I told small children in our family that Santa Claus flew on Delta at Christmas to help save time and get all the presents all over the world in a timely manner. Now, I guess I can be viewed as being guilty of being anti-reindeer or at the very least, non friendly to artic animal species and by proxy, an enemy of those persons who love them or who live with them. Please don’t pelt my house with snowballs.
June 26th, 2011 at 10:05 am
I have flown Delta Airlines countless times over the last 30 years. I will never fly Delta again. After the outrageous baggage fees you charged our brave servicemen returning from war recently and this new announcement I can see the almighty dollar means more to you than this country or the people who serve to keep us free. I sincerely hope this is the beginning of the end for Delta. Nothing would make me happier than to see you go out of business.
June 26th, 2011 at 10:35 am
I am a Delta sky miles member. I am also Jewish. Remember we control the world so we can put Delta out of business. I will cancel my membership to your sky miles club and never fly Delta again. We will urge all freedom loving people to never fly Delta also. Your airline is a DISGRACE !!!!
June 26th, 2011 at 12:27 pm
As a Jew (a religious one to boot), i feel Delta is not discriminating against Jews directly, but rather indirectly. Joining a deal with an Airline that openly discriminates against MY religion, Delta is inevitably putting it’s stamp of approval on the company and it’s policy’s.
I think if Delta wanted to take a stand, it could say to the HRH the King of Saudi Arabia, we are sorry, but wont be able to code share with you, as you have policy’s that are against our values. That is if Delta put morals before money.
June 26th, 2011 at 12:49 pm
Your new “alliance” with the Saudia Arabian bigots is disgusting.
Do you really think that anyone is going to buy your lame excuses?
Rest assured that I will not being boarding another Delta flight until this so-called “alliance” is revoked and a sincere apology is issued.
To the extent that I can, I will make sure others are informed of your revolting corporate policy.
If groups rise up to sue you or otherwise damage your brand name then they will have my support.
Meanwhile, I intend to write to my elected representatives and ask for their help in stopping, once and forever, your anti-semitism.
It is indeed a very sad day to see Delta fall to such depths. Shame on you.
June 26th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
Your airline should be ashamed to even think of allowing Saudi Air into the alliance. You are doing it for money making purposes, and if you were a smart airline, you would abandon this appalling thought immediately. You will lose many many customers of many faiths. Me, being a jew, will not fly your airline again if you team up with Saudi air. If you are going to upset and lose thousands and thousands of your christian and jewish customers, you better think twice. Your CEO should be ashamed.
Don’t forget, there are many airlines out there… this is one step closer for you to go out of business.
June 26th, 2011 at 2:40 pm
Wow, it wasn’t until I read all these responses that I realized the lunacy of the flying public.
First of all, everyone ought to know that Saudi Arabia — as well as 13 other countries in the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia — do not accept Israeli passports. For some reason, everyone here keeps using the terms “Israeli” and “Jew” interchangeably. So, here is a public service announcement to all readers of this blog: NOT ALL JEWS ARE ISRAELI. Does Saudi Arabia or the other 13 countries deny visas to Jews? NO. Plenty of Jews with passports from the United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, western Europe, etc. etc. regularly obtain visas to go to Saudi Arabia.
Now that the terms “Jewish” and “Israeli” have been defined, I want to address the confusion over Delta’s relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Saudi Arabian Airlines. As Trebor has clearly pointed out, they have a “standard industry interline agreement.” Delta DOES NOT operate flights to Saudi Arabia, nor do they codeshare with Saudi Arabian Airlines. In fact, Delta does not operate flights to any of the 13 other countries that deny entry to Israeli passport holders.
However, as long as everyone is blowing this issue out of proportion, I have taken the liberty of compiling a list of airlines that actually serve the 14 countries that deny entry to Israelis. I expect each and every one of the people on this forum that intend on boycotting Delta to boycott these airlines. The list is by no means exhaustive, so please do your research before you step on another airplane to make sure you’re not violating your boycott. I have marked particularly important ones with an asterisk. So, here it goes:
Aeroflot*
Afriqiiyah Airways
Air Algérie
Air Arabia
Air Baltic
Air Berlin*
Air China*
Air France*
Air India*
Air Malta
Alitalia*
Austrian Airlines*
Bahrain Air
Bangkok Airways
Batavia Air
Biman Bangladesh Airlines
bmi*
British Airways*
Cathay Pacific*
China Eastern Airlines*
China Southern Airlines*
Cyprus Airways
Czech Airlines*
Dragonair
EgyptAir*
Emirates*
Ethiopian Airlines*
Etihad Airways*
Flydubai
Garuda Indonesia*
Germania
GMG Airlines
Gulf Air
Hellenic Imperial Airways
Iberia*
Jazeera Airways
Jet Airways*
Kenya Airways*
Kingfisher Airlines*
KLM*
Kuwait Airways
LOT Polish Airlines*
Lufthansa*
Malaysia Airlines*
Malev Hungarian Airlines*
Middle East Airlines
Nas Air
Oman Air
Pakistan International Airlines
Qatar Airways*
Royal Air Maroc*
Royal Jordanian*
Saudi Arabian Airlines*
Singapore Airlines*
Spanair
Srilankan Airlines
Sudan Airways
Swiss International Airlines*
Syrian Air
TAP Air Portugal*
Tarom Romanian Airlines
Thai Airways International*
Tunisair
Turkish Airlines*
United Airlines (+Continental Airlines)*
Yemenia
There you have it. I hope all of you Delta boycotters take this into consideration. Keep in mind that Delta DOES NOT serve any of the 14 countries, and these airlines serve AT LEAST one… so you have your work cut out for you. You may find flying anywhere in the world to be rather difficult from now on. I will be happy to know that none of you will be sitting with me on the plane.
I, for one, will happily continue to fly Delta whenever I am making travel arrangements.
June 26th, 2011 at 4:18 pm
umm… isn’t this the same as IBM, Ford, General Motors, Standard Oil and NAZI Germany? Delta, please explain the difference and why you think its ok to discriminate against Jews for the sake of a business relationship? Perhaps you’ll come out with Jandarm outfits for your flight attendants and state that we’re not Nazi’s but we’ll support their laws – its not our responsibility to go against their government. GROW UP DELTA!! Won’t be flying Delta.
June 26th, 2011 at 7:31 pm
The year is 1943 a USA railroad company agrees to enter into a business transaction with a German railroad company that transports Jews to death camps. The company claims that since they are not directly involved in the inhalation of the Jews nor will ever attempt to discriminate or harm those who use the company’s rail service in the USA or other parts of the world it services the business association with the German railroad is not in violation of their policy nor will diminish the quality service they will continue to provide to those they serve in the USA and throughout the world. The year is 1965 a USA Bus Company enters into a business transaction with another Bus company that blatantly discriminates against blacks and other minorities by forcing them to ride in less quality buses or in the back of the bus. The USA bus company justifies the business affiliation with the company that violates human rights by assuring its users of its continued commitment to provide quality service as well as access to their services to anyone regardless of race. “For evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing”. If Delta refuses to speak for and support what is good I will cancel my Delta American Express and choose another airline for my travels.
June 26th, 2011 at 9:37 pm
Dear Delta,
Read this in a news article from WND: “Delta Air Lines’ plan to add Saudi Arabian Airlines to its SkyTeam Alliance of partnering companies would require the American carrier to ban Jews and holders of Israeli passports from boarding flights from New York or Washington bound for Jeddah” You can make excuses all you want that you do not have control over what other countries require, but you have moral responsiblities to stand up for what is right. You are an American company and should not partner with those who violate our Bill of Rights and moral decency. I represent 20,000 organizations, and we will boycott Delta if need be, if you go ahead and allow such discrimination to take place. I expect an reply.
Sincerely, Dr. Amos Cohen
June 26th, 2011 at 10:29 pm
Any deal with the Devil is just that, A deal with the Devil. Delta has made such a deal and must live with it or, in “banned Bible” terms, repent. The “banned Bible” says that there is pleasure in sin for a short time so, Delta enjoy it before you reap the consequences of your labor. Please remember two things, 1. You won’t be getting any more of my money. 2. Ban the Koran and see what happens.
June 27th, 2011 at 9:42 am
I read the Saudi statement loud and clear through the noise of your corporate engines. I’m cancelling my Skymiles account and don’t plan to travel your airline again.
June 27th, 2011 at 11:08 am
Why has this discussion gone silent?
June 27th, 2011 at 11:31 am
You have chosen to do partner with an airline that has discriminatory policies. There is quite simply no defense.
June 27th, 2011 at 12:21 pm
I am canceling my Delta AMX, selling my stock and encouraging my travel clients to fly carriers other than Delta
June 27th, 2011 at 12:30 pm
Delta has much to review. Please consider.
1.) Delta should be honored to have our bravest men and women fly the airline after months or years in the Middle East, fighting to ensure us the freedoms that we have. While it was, oh, so generous for Delta to up the baggage allowance to four, how about this?: Returning servicemen and women get free passage and no baggage charges. That would be an honorable policy.
2.) If Delta has no veto power and Saudi Arabia Air becomes a member of SkyMiles reciprocity, Delta could and should resign it’s membership with that organization. If they cannot help with the problem, they can end that relationship.
3.) Delta Air Lines and United Continental Holdings will pay out a combined total of $537 million in profit sharing to their respective employees as a result of their strong 2010 performances. DL earned $593 million in 2010 (ATW Daily News, Jan. 19) and UCH had pro forma earnings of $854 million (ATW Daily News, Jan. 27). From Air Transport World.
4.) DL will pay $313 million to its employees—the “largest profit-sharing payout in the airline’s history,” the airline said. (From Air Transport World).
5.) It is disconcerting that so few comments have been made about the Saudis’ role in the Trade Center and Pentagon disasters. That the U.S. government arranged safe passage for selected Saudi Arabians to leave the U.S. on 9/12 or 9/13/2001. Nothing has been mentioned about the Saudi Arabian Dynasty’s funding of compensation to families of suicide bombers. There has been no mention of the Bush family’s long standing business partnership with the Saudi Royal Family. (The Bush family also was involved in profitable business dealings with the Nazi German government, as was the Kennedy family). That government has us by the throat and we’re taking it, rather than having started looking at alternative sources of energy as early as the 1950s.
And last, since it is the Saudi Arabian Ruling family that has been the source of so much of our troubles vis a vis our economy and surging fuel prices, why would we ever enter into an agreement with them at all? Unfortunately, Delta’s overt ignorance of these restrictions, is likely representative of too many in our population.
June 27th, 2011 at 2:29 pm
There is no legitimate excuse as to why Delta would partner with Saudi Arabia to enforce Sharia law!
As for the USA importing oil from Saudi Arabia and other middle eastern nations, et al–it is completely unnecessary–the USA has all the oil and natural gas it needs–they have to only open the capped wells and stop pumping natural gas back into the Earth and begin new drilling! This nonsense about the USA being dependent upon foreign oil–is only true because the Marxists in power in the USA have chosen to make it so.
June 27th, 2011 at 2:48 pm
With regards to the “silence” on this issue, one should consider that WordPress may be overly tight with their SPAM filters and thus a great number of comments may have been removed in error. The other is the possibility that Delta may have a hand in this as well. As I neither work for WordPress or Delta, these can only be assumptions.
After reading all the postings one thing is clear – Delta MUST remove itself from SkyTeam. It should also bar any ticket sale to Saudi Arabia as long as they discriminate based on race and/or religion. In fact, all USA airlines should adopt this policy.
As one who plans to fly to the middle east in the future, I cannot of good conscience fly with any airline that would willingly become a member of any group or association that would discriminate. This will only mean that I will have to research all airlines and find those who are 1) not part of SkyTeam and 2) does not bow to the oppressive racist/antisemitic policies of any nation.
Perhaps those with better understanding of what airline policies are between all the airlines could post a few that would be acceptable, and those who, like Delta, have caved to such as the Saudi’s.
June 27th, 2011 at 10:28 pm
I have read with much trepidation and disdain about Delta’s alliance with Saudi Airlines. Surely there are many other airlines you could have partnered with than this one. Shame on Delta for putting profits and your own business interests ahead of dignity and respect. You may not have control over the immigration and other laws of other countries, but you don’t have to do business with them and surreptitiously sweep their discriminatory laws under the rug in the name of business interests. I happen to be of Jewish descent, a woman, and am a Christian. Does that mean I face triple discrimination from the Saudis if I fly into Riyadh on a connecting flight? I have flown Delta several times in the past, but will seek out other airlines for future flights. You disgust me and your alliance reeks to high Heaven. If you shake hands with the Devil, then expect them to stink afterwards.
June 28th, 2011 at 3:24 pm
The inability of the vast majority of the poster’s on this thread to read, analyze in context, and appropriately process information is truly mind-boggling. Please stop citing ‘facts’ from news articles which have been retracted and edited due to their egregious errors and misrepresentation of reality.
Furthermore, I hope all if you screaming ‘boycott’ plan on avoiding ALL American airline companies as EVERY one of them is a member of a global airline alliance which contains partners that fly to Saudi Arabia and, accordingly, comply with the very same restrictions. Oh, I guess you all missed that little fact while reading your spun stories for less-than-objective sources.
Don’t get me wrong – Saudi Arabia’s laws and practices are abhorrent – but, just as was the case regarding the ignorant public overreaction about soldiers having to pay for some of their bags a few weeks ago, Delta is NO DIFFERENT THAN EVERY OTHER AMERICAN CARRIER that serves international destinations. So, if you take exception with them, be fair and consistent by calling out all of the other airlines.
June 29th, 2011 at 7:55 pm
Delta Airlines at the receiving end of condemnation from pro Israel Zionist organizations that openly support Israel’s persecution of Palestinians and scream anti Semitism every time Israel is criticized ?
Oh good – remind me to fly with Delta Airlines again and again and again. An airline that is at the receiving end of pro Israel blackmail deserves all of my support.
July 5th, 2011 at 1:45 pm
Are you ever going to reopen this blog for comments? Or is Delta simply wishing this issue goes away. I for one am not yet satisfied that Delta has adequately explained its decision to support Saudi Arabia Airlines entry into the Sky Team Alliance. Saudi Air did not have to join the Alliance for Delta to have an interairline agreement with them, so what exactly does Saudi Air gain that they didn’t have before?
May 31st, 2012 at 11:08 am
So you’re not going to share frequent flier benefits with Saudi Air, huh?