A United Airlines passenger unleashed a tirade of racist insults at wedding photographer Pervez Taufiq and his Indian-American family during a flight from Cancun to Los Angeles. The incident, captured on video by Taufiq on November 24, shows the woman verbally abusing the family and directing racially charged remarks.
The altercation began mid-flight when the woman allegedly harassed Taufiq’s 11-year-old son, questioning his ethnicity. Later, during the bus transfer to the terminal, she berated the family, accusing them of lacking respect and hurling offensive stereotypes like “curry” and “tandoori.” Taufiq confronted her, prompting her to call him racist and claim he was not American. Taufiq clarified that he was U.S.-born, countering her claims.
The video also shows the woman making obscene gestures and continuing her abuse, reportedly under the influence of alcohol. United Airlines employees intervened, removing her from the bus after a fellow passenger highlighted her disruptive behavior.
Taufiq later expressed gratitude to the airline and supportive passengers via Instagram. He shared his disappointment that such prejudice persists, stating, “As photographers, we’ve witnessed a lot, but this is one experience we could have done without.”
The incident has sparked discussions online about confronting racism and ensuring accountability in public spaces.
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