On August 26, 2025, news broke about a Delta Air Lines passenger who claims a flight attendant slapped him during a flight. The passenger, Mohammad Shibli, says the event left him feeling humiliated in front of his family. He now plans to sue the airline for $20 million. This amount equals one day of Delta’s profits. Shibli also wants the company to train all staff on Palestine sensitivity.
Shibli was flying with his wife and two young children. The family was on Delta flight DL 561, traveling from Atlanta, Georgia, to Fresno, California, on July 29, 2025. The plane was a Boeing 737-800, and the flight lasted about four hours and 42 minutes.
What Led to the Argument
The trouble started when Shibli’s two-year-old son felt thirsty. His wife asked a flight attendant for water. The attendant said no, explaining the drink cart had not reached their row yet. Shibli then asked the same attendant for water, but she refused again. Her tone was rude, according to Shibli.
Another flight attendant saw the issue and gave the family water, also apologizing for the first attendant’s actions. Shibli went back to his seat. Later, the first attendant came to their row with the cart.
She offered Shibli a drink, but he said no. The attendant leaned close to his ear and whispered a bad word. Shibli got upset and stood up, responding with harsh words.
The attendant then slapped him hard with an open hand. A nearby passenger heard the slap even while wearing noise-canceling earbuds. The witness turned around and saw the attendant yelling, “You don’t get to call me that.”
The Slap and Immediate Aftermath
Shibli did not hit back. He sat down for the rest of the flight, which lasted nearly four more hours. He felt embarrassed, especially because his child saw the whole thing. Shibli, a Palestinian Muslim, believes his wife’s Palestine shirt may have played a role in the attendant’s behavior.
When the plane landed in Fresno, police came on board and spoke with the flight attendant. No one was arrested at the time. Delta began an investigation and suspended the attendant, saying they take the matter seriously but would not comment on ongoing cases.
Demands in the Planned Lawsuit
Shibli’s main demand is $20 million, an amount he says equals one day of Delta’s profits. His lawyers explained that last year Delta made about $5 billion before taxes, or roughly $13.7 million per day, but they rounded the figure up to $20 million. They argue it is fair compensation for the harm done.
He also wants Delta to start training programs on Palestine sensitivity for all staff, covering facts and cultural awareness. His legal team gave Delta 30 days to agree, or they will file the lawsuit in Atlanta.
Legal experts say the case may be difficult to win. Delta could argue the attendant acted independently. Georgia law also limits punitive damages to $250,000 in many cases. Since there are no large medical bills or lost wages, the main harm here is emotional.
Delta’s Response and Company Policies
Delta has kept its public comments minimal. A spokesperson stated: “This flight attendant has been suspended while the investigation is ongoing.” The airline added that they do not comment on possible lawsuits.
This is not the first time Delta faced issues related to Palestine. In 2024, the company banned staff from wearing Palestine flag pins after a social media post referred to them as “Hamas badges.” Delta later removed the post, but critics accused the airline of bias.
The union for flight attendants, AFA-CWA, which has been trying to organize Delta workers, called the ban unfair. Airlines like Delta usually aim to avoid politics, but incidents like this can damage their public image.
Broader Impact on Air Travel
Shibli’s case highlights broader questions about air travel safety and professionalism. Flight attendants are empowered to maintain order, but slapping a passenger clearly violates rules and damages trust.
Passengers also expect respectful service. Families with children often require extra care. Denying water to a thirsty child appears unreasonable, and it fueled the conflict. While some people online doubt the story, others support Shibli and call for change.
The FBI may review the case, though they have not confirmed an investigation. If Shibli proceeds with the lawsuit, it could take years before a resolution. Witness testimony, such as from the passenger with earbuds, could be important.
This incident shows how minor disputes can escalate on long flights where stress levels are high. Training can help staff de-escalate tensions. Delta may need to reassess its policies and crew preparedness.
In the end, passengers want to feel safe and respected. This slap incident is a reminder of that, and it could push airlines to adopt better rules and training in the future.