Emmy Award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, best known for her role as Barbara Howard in the hit sitcom Abbott Elementary, recently took to social media to share a negative experience with American Airlines customer service.
In a tweet, Ralph recounted how she booked her elderly friend on a first class flight home for her retirement.
She expressed her disappointment on Twitter, writing “Dear @AmericanAir , I know you didn’t mean it but I booked my 75 year old friend a first class ticket home for her retirement.” She continued “We requested a wheelchair and you let her sit there missing her flight then charged her $400!”
Her tweets quickly amassed thousands of likes and retweets. Many people shared their own negative experiences with American Airlines, while others expressed their support for Sheryl Lee Ralph.
Ralph’s tweets sparked a conversation about customer service in the airline industry. Many people commented that airlines have become increasingly rigid and inflexible, and that they often put profits over customer satisfaction.
One commenter replied and said “We still having trouble with @americanair ?”
Another stated, “Come on @AmericanAir Let’s make this right 😤 There’s been way too much mistreatment of disabled clients!”
Ralph’s experience is not unique. Many passengers have reported similar experiences with American Airlines in recent years. In 2022, the airline ranked last among major U.S. carriers in terms of customer satisfaction, according to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI).
The airline has been criticized for its long wait times, high baggage fees, and cramped seating. It has also been accused of overbooking flights and canceling flights without notice.
American Airlines has acknowledged its customer service issues and has pledged to make improvements. However, many passengers remain skeptical.
American Airlines did respond to Sheryl Lee Ralph’s initial tweet.
It looks like there might have been a resolution in the matter but it is a gentle reminder that even celebrities aren’t immune to poor customer service.
Despite her recent experience with American Airlines, Ralph is still looking forward to her upcoming event, DIVAS Simply Singing! Raising Health Awareness. The benefit concert, which will be held on November 19th at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles, will raise funds for HIV/AIDS prevention and other health awareness programs.
“I’m so excited to be a part of this important event,” Sheryl Lee Ralph said. “It’s a cause that’s very close to my heart, and I’m honored to be able to use my platform to help raise awareness and funds for these important programs.”
The concert will feature a star-studded lineup of performers, including Amber Riley, Dianne Reeves, and Saycon Sengbloh. Sheryl Lee Ralph will also be performing, and she is looking forward to sharing her voice with the audience.
DIVAS Simply Singing! is a must-see event for fans of great music and a great cause. Tickets are on sale now at https://divassimplysinging.com/