Alleged Misgendering Incident Leads to Passenger's Removal from United Airlines Flight

Yesterday, a passenger was removed from a United Airlines flight at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) following an alleged misgendering incident involving a flight attendant. Jenna Longoria, along with her baby and mother, was taken off the flight to Austin Bergstrom International Airport. Longoria shared her experience on social media, claiming that the removal was due to her using the incorrect pronoun for a flight attendant, which the airline purportedly considered a hate crime.

Airline captains have the authority to ensure the safety and security of their crew and passengers, including the right to remove passengers if deemed necessary. This authority was exercised in the incident at SFO. Longoria's social media posts highlighted that she might face a ban from flying with United Airlines in the future due to the incident.

In a video posted by Longoria, an airport staff member explained that the captain's decision to remove her, her mother, and her 16-month-old son had to be respected. The family had to deplane without their carry-on luggage, which contained medication for her son.

United Airlines issued a statement regarding the incident:

"A party of three traveling out of San Francisco today was not allowed to board following a discussion about having too many carry-on items. The matter was resolved, and the customers took a later United flight to finish their trip."

The exact details of the incident remain unclear, and there may be more to the story than has been disclosed.

In other news, United Airlines recently announced an update to its inflight offerings, introducing illy cold brew coffee. Starting next week, United will be the only major US airline to serve cold brew on most of its flights. Initially, the cold brew will be available on some redeye flights between Los Angeles/San Francisco and Newark. Passengers in premium cabins will receive complimentary cold brew, while those in economy can purchase it.

Aaron McMillan, Managing Director of Hospitality Programs at United Airlines, commented:

"As more people than ever take to the skies this summer, we are thrilled to offer fliers a new premium drink, and we’re proud to be the only major U.S. airline currently serving cold brew onboard most flights. We know fliers enjoy a pick-me-up during travel, and illy’s canned cold brew is the perfect beverage option for coffee lovers looking to stay energized and focused during their trip."