Leading article: Plane offensive
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Our revelations today of casual and obnoxious racism among employees of British Airways come at an especially uncomfortable time for the "world's favourite airline".
For an organisation still smarting from the debacle of Terminal 5's opening at Heathrow, the scandal of the mistreatment of a plane-load of passengers on a flight to Nigeria, and the loss of its stranglehold on transatlantic flights, the last thing it needs is a row about staff racism. But this is not an issue that can be ignored.
Any company would have to investigate allegations such as this – if true, they reflect appalling attitudes. But British Airways is not just any company; it is the national flag carrier. It represents Britain around the world.
If British Airways' chief executive Willie Walsh expects his airline to retain that cherished status and esteem, he will put his house in order without delay.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments