The American airline is feeling the pressure as passengers threaten to boycott following the controversial episode.
Everyone saw the footage and the fallout looks set to continue for United Airlines after they forcibly removed a passenger from one of its planes.
The flight from Chicago to Louisville was overbooked and according to the airline they were looking for volunteers to give up their seats, one man refused and passengers looked on (and filmed) in shock as he was carried off the plane against his will.
According to the Business Insider stocks took a hit today, with shares falling 3% following widespread outrage.
Since the incident, the CEO of United Airlines Oscar Munoz released a statement,
“This is an upsetting event to all of us here at United. I apologize for having to re-accommodate these customers. Our team is moving with a sense of urgency to work with the authorities and conduct our own detailed review of what happened. We are also reaching out to this passenger to talk directly to him and further address and resolve this situation.”
According to the Chicago aviation department, one of the officers involved in the removal did not follow protocol and has been placed on leave pending a review.
Federal transportation officials said they were reviewing whether United Airlines had complied with regulations.
With threats of a boycott on the horizon, it looks like United Airlines will be feeling the effect of this episode for some time to come.
@united I’m a frequent flier of yours. This morning I chose to “reaccomodate” thousands of $ in biz to @SouthwestAir #bummer
— Maryrose (@MaryroseBisagna) April 10, 2017
@MaryroseBisagna We can’t wait to welcome you onboard! DM us your RR # for a little treat before takeoff. ^BS
— Southwest Airlines (@SouthwestAir) April 10, 2017
@united This response is the definition of lukewarm. You shouldn’t be “upset.” You should be outraged, Mr. CEO.
— Mandy Hale (@MissMandyHale) April 10, 2017
.@united Wow, this is quite the non-apology. Disgusting how you treated your own customers. Done with you. #boycott https://t.co/HqdYQebht4
— Cynthia Boaz (@cynthiaboaz) April 10, 2017
@united This man better have unlimited flights for life. I can’t imagine being in his position and treated like this.
— Victoria Stiles (@victoriastiles) April 11, 2017
