American Airlines has placed one of its pilots on leave following a social media post that appeared to mock the recent assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.
On Friday, commentator Milo Yiannopoulos shared a screenshot on X (formerly Twitter) of a post allegedly made by American Airlines pilot Steve Holmes. The post, referencing Kirk’s death, read:
“Well hey Charlie. Sorry you got shot in your fat f**king forehead. It was just the cost of our liberty. Thoughts and prayers.”
The message quickly circulated online, drawing widespread condemnation. Actor James Woods amplified the screenshot with the remark: “Enjoy your flight!”—implying concern over the pilot’s judgment and professionalism.
Enjoy your flight! https://t.co/lLeg9Lf24B
— James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) September 13, 2025
In response, American Airlines released a statement condemning the message and affirming its commitment to safety and inclusivity:
“American Airlines condemns violence of any kind. Furthermore, hate-related or hostile behavior runs contrary to our purpose, which is to care for people on life’s journey. Any such behavior is unacceptable, and we have already initiated action to address this with our team.”
Enjoy your flight! https://t.co/lLeg9Lf24B
— James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) September 13, 2025
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy also weighed in on X, confirming disciplinary action had been taken against Holmes and others allegedly involved in similar conduct:
“American Airlines pilots who were caught celebrating the assassination of Charlie Kirk have been immediately grounded and removed from service by American Air. This behavior is disgusting and they should be fired. Any company responsible for the safety of the traveling public cannot tolerate that behavior.”
Duffy emphasized that the government will not tolerate public figures or employees in safety-sensitive roles glorifying political violence, regardless of the ideology involved.
American Airlines pilots who were caught celebrating the assassination of Charlie Kirk have been immediately grounded and removed from service by @AmericanAir.
This behavior is disgusting and they should be fired.
Any company responsible for the safety of the traveling public… https://t.co/nq2B3G84hu
— Secretary Sean Duffy (@SecDuffy) September 13, 2025
The incident has sparked renewed conversation around the treatment of political violence and the standards of conduct expected from professionals in the transportation industry.