I’m absolutely shocked that Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker has released an apology…or at least a non-apology mea culpa…for his controversial comments about the age of U.S. flight attendants.
Here’s the statement, not from Akbar himself but from the PR firm representing Qatar Airways:
I should like to apologise unreservedly to those offended by my recent remarks which compared Qatar Airways cabin crew with cabin crew on US carriers. The remarks were made informally at a private gala dinner, following comments about the Qatar Airways cabin service, and were in no way intended to cause offence. This is a time of strong rivalry between our airline and the US carriers, and we are of course immensely proud of our own cabin crew. However, cabin crew are the public face of all airlines, and I greatly respect their hard work and professionalism. They play a huge role in the safety and comfort of passengers, irrespective of their age or gender or familial status. I have worked for many years in the industry, and I have a high regard for the value that I see long-serving staff members bringing through their experience and dedication.
I know, I know. He apologies to “those offended” rather than for the statement itself. He also seems to defend his statement rather than show remorse for her.
But I’ll give him credit for at least doing this. I don’t think we can expect anything more from Akbar. Furthermore, his last-sentence provides a strong defense of veterans FAs, like so many in the United States.
What do you think of the apology? Something he was just dragged into or an attempt to make peace?
(H/T: Lucky)
please …. he only asked some intern at the PR firm to draft this because all the negative publicity he’s been getting
he’s very much like Donald – none of the scripted speeches actually reflect the person delivering it
huh… are u nuts?
you mean the president has to type everything himself? what are the staff for?
you mean your boss should do what YOU are paid to do? OK YOU’RE FiRED!
LOL
Why do we even analyze non-apologies? They are exactly that – not an apology. If one can’t humble himself enough to offer a genuine, actual apology, why do we even give them credence by acknowledging that there’s no remorse/regret being conveyed?
I think he is sorry, just arrogant. It’s pathetic, but I do think it is newsworthy.
Why would anybody want to fly Quatar Airlines? Quatar has ignored requests from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates to discontinue its support for terrorist groups, such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and others. If one goes to Quatar, they are at the mercy of the local authorities, with backward mentalities, going back hundreds of years. I would not spend a nickel on that airline. Hence, the remarks of the CEO really don’t surprise me.
Lol. Anywhere you go, you are under tbe mercy of local authority, always.
You get on the airplane, you are under the mercy of local authority (FAs). They tell you that your son should sit on your lap (eventough he was over 24 months and purchased a ticket) you comply. FA said you should get off the plane because some crew needed your seat (even after you sit on your seat), you comply (unless you want to be beaten and dragged out of the plane).
Reality hurts much huh? Lol