The publisher of an in-flight magazine for Air China has apologized after becoming embroiled in a racism row.
The magazine, Wings of China, carried an article advising passengers to take “precautions” when visiting parts of London “populated by Indians, Pakistanis and black people”.
The article, distributed on flights run by Air China, Asia’s third-largest airline, was condemned by London politicians as “offensive” and “outrageous”, with one MP saying she would write to the Chinese ambassador to complain.
The publisher has apologized, saying the piece contained “some improper expressions”.
While partly blaming the row on “misinterpretations among media and readers”, it admitted the article was “at odds with our original purpose of promoting the beautiful scenery of London”. It said the article suffered from “mistakes made by the editors” and promised to “carefully learn this lesson”.
“We also would like to send sincere apologies via Air China to all the readers and passengers who felt uncomfortable because of this.”
The magazine had carried a feature on what tourist attractions to visit in London and what cultural and lifestyle activities are on offer in the city.
In a section entitled Tips from Air China, passengers were told: “London is generally a safe place to travel, however precautions are needed when entering areas mainly populated by Indians, Pakistanis and black people,” International Business Time UK reported.
“We advise tourists not to go out alone at night and females always to be accompanied by another person when travelling.”
Air China said it has since removed the magazine from all its flights.
