An interracial couple from Arizona has filed a lawsuit against American Airlines, alleging that they were detained by law enforcement after the husband was falsely suspected of trafficking his wife by two airline employees and another passenger on their flight. The incident occurred in September 2022, on a flight from Phoenix to Miami. Anthony Williams, a Black retired police officer, and his wife, Katsiaryna Shasholka, who is white and a Russian national, were headed to their honeymoon.
In the lawsuit filed in the Southern District of Florida, the couple claims that another passenger suspected Mr. Williams of trafficking his wife and alerted airline staff. Upon landing, the couple was escorted off the plane and detained by local authorities, accusing them of being “falsely imprisoned.”
Their lawyer, Jasmine Rand, stated that “American Airlines’ pattern of racial discrimination of its passengers is intolerable.” The airline stated that they are reviewing the allegations and strive to provide a positive experience to all travelers.
The N.A.A.C.P. previously issued an advisory to Black travelers about flying American in 2017 due to reports of racial discrimination. The advisory was lifted after nine months when the airline committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The N.A.A.C.P. continues to have a dialogue with the airline on best practices for equitable travel experiences.
In December, American settled a lawsuit with three Black men who were wrongly removed from a flight due to a complaint about body odor. These incidents highlight ongoing concerns about racial profiling and discrimination within the airline industry.