With the unusually forceful “bumping” (or “re-accommodation”) of a United Airlines passenger last week, the airline has been forced to apologize for breaking his nose and knocking out two of his teeth, and “flying the friendly skies” has taken on a new meaning. Meanwhile, United CEO Oscar Munoz defended the forceful removal, saying it was “established procedures.” Social media was quick to respond and many loyal United customers promised to stop flying with them. United’s stock fell 1.1% following the incident, wiping out $255 million off the airline’s market cap. Then, on Saturday, a couple flying to Costa Rica for their wedding were accompanied off their flight by a U.S. marshal after they sat in the wrong seats, even though they moved to the correct seats when asked. Looks as though United has a long way to go to right its ship. Cartoon by Ed Hall.
