United Airlines CEO Faces Backlash for Diversity Initiatives

Critics argue that safety should be prioritized over diversity, equity, and inclusion measures in the aviation industry.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has been criticized for his company's diversity initiatives, which aim to ensure that 50% of their graduating pilot classes will be women or people of color.
Kirby, who is also a drag queen in his spare time, has been accused of pushing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) measures at the expense of safety.
Kirby's diversity initiatives have faced legal challenges alleging discrimination and purging of religious employees who sought exemptions from the COVID-19 vaccine.
Tech executive Elon Musk and others have criticized the Federal Aviation Administration’s efforts to recruit employees with severe intellectual disabilities and psychiatric problems as part of its diversity efforts.
United Airlines and other airlines have faced backlash for their focus on diversity, with critics arguing that safety should be the top priority.