
Delta Airlines has issued an apology following a viral video showing its baggage handlers mishandling the equipment of the East Tennessee State University (ETSU) men’s golf team. The video, shared by the team on X (formerly Twitter) late Tuesday, shows baggage handlers tossing golf clubs onto the tarmac and onto a transfer vehicle, sparking online outrage.
The ETSU men’s golf team was on its way to compete in the NCAA Championships in Carlsbad, California, after winning the Southern Conference and advancing through the NCAA Regionals. The team expressed its dismay in the post, saying, “Nice of Delta to handle our clubs with such care.”
In response, Delta apologized and asked for a second chance. “We apologize to the ETSU Golf team and ask for a mulligan on how their equipment was handled,” said Delta spokesperson Anthony Black in an email. The airline assured that it was in contact with the team to address the issue and ensure the team had everything they needed for the competition. Black also explained that the baggage handlers are employed by a third-party vendor, Unifi Aviation.
Unifi, which provides baggage handling services to Delta, also issued an apology. “The way the luggage is being handled is not consistent with our training and policies,” said a Unifi spokesperson. “We are investigating and will take appropriate action.”
The video drew strong reactions from the public, with many calling for a more direct response from Delta. One user on X remarked, “Delta Simply telling people to contact baggage support isn’t enough. You should address this openly and accept it is not acceptable.” Another wrote, “Delta UNACCEPTABLE! Why the silence? And you know this is not isolated.”
In reply, Delta responded to several concerned posts, encouraging users to reach out privately for further assistance.