Multiple American Airlines pilots have been removed from duty following internal investigations into social media posts celebrating the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
According to the Washington Examiner, the disciplinary measures came after federal authorities and airlines identified posts deemed hostile or violent in response to Kirk’s recent death during a campus event in Utah.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the disciplinary actions Saturday, stating that pilots involved in posting messages online glorifying Kirk’s assassination had been grounded and removed by American Airlines. Duffy criticized the behavior as “disgusting” and said it should result in terminations, especially from workers responsible for passenger safety.
American Airlines confirmed it had taken action against multiple pilots after internal reviews found posts on social media that appeared to endorse political violence. One of the now-deleted messages read, “Sorry you got shot in your fat f***ing forehead. It was just the cost of our liberty.”
The airline released a statement reinforcing its commitment to a professional and respectful culture. It said employees promoting violence were “immediately removed from service” and emphasized that hate-filled behavior stands in direct conflict with the airline’s mission to “care for people on life’s journey.”
Similarity to Delta Air Lines’ Disciplinary Actions
The incident at American Airlines mirrors a similar situation at Delta Air Lines, which took disciplinary action on Friday against an unspecified number of employees. The airline said worker posts referring negatively to Kirk’s murder violated its conduct policies.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian commented on the internal review, saying that employee comments “went well beyond healthy, respectful debate” and caused serious concerns about appropriate workplace behavior. Bastian signaled that employees involved could face termination once the investigation concludes. Both airlines stated they are continuing to evaluate behavior on social media platforms by their staff and will not tolerate posts that promote or glorify acts of violence, regardless of the political context. Neither airline has publicly specified how many employees have been disciplined or dismissed thus far.
Kirk Fatally Shot at Campus Event in Utah
Charlie Kirk, a well-known political commentator and founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on Wednesday while speaking at a university campus event in Utah. The killing sparked widespread reactions across the political spectrum, including both criticism and support on various online platforms. Kirk, 31, was shot during the Q&A portion of the event. The incident prompted a manhunt that ended with the arrest of a 22-year-old suspect, Tyler Robinson. Authorities apprehended Robinson after he fled the scene and was tracked down using text message records shared by his live-in partner.
Robinson now faces multiple charges, including murder, obstruction of justice, and violations related to firearm use during a felony. Investigators say Robinson’s partner—who identifies as transgender—played a key role in the arrest by providing location data and context for incriminating messages.
Official Condemnation of Employee Behavior
Transportation Secretary Duffy was among the most vocal federal officials responding to the social media activity from airline employees. On Saturday, he commented via social media that individuals showing support for Kirk’s killing while working in positions of public trust should face immediate dismissal.
“Pilots who were caught celebrating the assassination of Charlie Kirk have been immediately grounded and removed from service by @AmericanAir,” Duffy said. “This behavior is disgusting, and they should be fired. Any company responsible for the safety of the traveling public cannot tolerate that behavior.”
Airlines, including American and Delta, continue to evaluate internal procedures regarding employee conduct on social networks. The push comes as major companies face increasing pressure to enforce codes of conduct both in-person and online, particularly when those roles involve public safety and customer interaction.
Public Reaction and Upcoming Funeral Details
Kirk’s death has generated ongoing political discussion. While some mourned his loss, others sparked controversy with derogatory or celebratory messages online. This reaction has led multiple businesses and public figures to denounce any support for violent political acts.
Following news of his death, sales of Kirk’s published works have surged, placing several of his books among the top sellers on Amazon’s ranking lists. His visibility as a media personality and political commentator appears to have added significance in the wake of his killing. Charlie Kirk’s funeral is scheduled for September 21 in Glendale, Arizona. The event is expected to draw supporters, political allies, and public figures recognizing Kirk's influence on national political discussions, particularly among conservative youth.
