Everyone hates long lines at TSA and confusing airport policies … especially during the holiday season. That’s why Actress Sheryl Lee Ralph is sharing her recent travel experience and calling on American Airlines to get it together!
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It’s no secret that the holidays are among the busiest times for airports across the world. This, on top of the fact that many airlines and airports in the country are still recovering from the 35-day government shutdown, has folks reporting delays and cancellations more than ever before. But while regular travelers don’t have the platform to go toe-to-toe with one of the biggest airlines in the country, Ralph, who is a self-proclaimed “million miler,” certainly can.
She took to X, detailing her experience with American Airlines’ First Class and priority check-in systems. “Well over one hour in the First Class/priority check-in line during holiday travel,” she began on the app. “Minimal staffing. Few answers. No sense of urgency or care and delayed. Holiday travel is not an excuse.”
And she didn’t stop there either. The “Abbot Elementary” star went on to call out the airline for their apparent “lack of empathy, accountability, or even acknowledgment of the inconvenience conveyed a troubling indifference, one that no customer should experience, and certainly not those who have chosen to spend the most to fly with your airline,” she wrote.
Ralph then tagged American Airlines and the company’s CEO, Robert Isom. Many folks chimed in, sharing their own experiences with American. “Very well said. I can only imagine the horror this might be to experience. Someone trying to get home to their family and loved ones yet the airline not trying to assist nor show empathy,” @MRfnIMMACULATE tweeted.
Another user, @natlawyerchic, flat out declared, “American is the worst airline IMO.”
But while many folks related to Ralph’s struggles, others acknowledged the privilege she has by even being able to afford a first-class ticket. “Just imagine what it is like for people not having the luxury of being able to afford flying first class/priority check in,” @WycheBa said.
“You are flying first class. Just hush. So entitled. Let’s hope this is the worst thing that happens to you,” @jrkjrm wrote. “Now take your seat, buckle up, wait for your warm towel and your champagne and put a cork in it. Literally.”
This isn’t the first time Ralph has made her frustrations with an airline known. Back in 2022, the actress blasted a Delta Airlines employee over issues with check in, the Independent reported.
American’s official X account responded directly to the actress. “Waiting frustrates us too, and our apologies for the longer than expected lines at check in. We’ll share your feedback with airport leaders so they can review it internally,” the company wrote.
The X exchange stood as a stark contrast from the airline’s recent promise to efficiently serve millions of travelers this year. In a December press release, American said it expected more than 12 million customers this season, which is a significant bump from last year’s flyers.
“Our more than 130,000 team members are committed to making our customers’ journeys on American this holiday season safe, reliable and enjoyable,” Chief Operating Officer David Seymour wrote in the statement. Meanwhile, nationwide severe weather and ongoing staff shortages are expected to affect travel this holiday season.
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