Does this complaint from a deaf-mute airline passenger have merit? Or is it political correctness run amok?

There is nothing outrageous or cruel about it and it is ludicrous to insist that someone be fired over it.

The proper expression is deaf mute. To use "deaf and dumb" was just stupid, I do not think they meant any big insult by it. What they should have done was just said "TEXT INFO" without giving the reason as the reason was not needed, only the customers request is what is important.

Having said that, people need to not be so touchy, they are complaining by every thing these days.

I actually wish that airlines would use more texting than PA announcements, I have some hearing loss and find those things virtually impossible to understand; if I can't find a written display I am easily confused.

That said, I can see where calling a mute person "dumb" while technically a valid though obsolete usage, might be offensive to some and as such, its use should be avoided. I have a lot of trouble figuring out why people get their panties all in a bunch when they are asked to behave in a mannerly and respectful way.

While historically, it is the accurate way to state the situation, the use of the word dumb instead of mute, in today's vernacular, makes it offensive.

UPDATE:

SUMMERTIME: the term 'dumb' meant mute in previous times. It didn't mean stupid. I'm sure it was related...thinking people weren't smart enough to talk, but deaf and dumb was meant to convey an inability to hear or speak. of course times have changed

I didn't watch it but if it is more than a comment that the old expression "deaf and dumb" was never appropriate it is p.c. bigotry.

The proper expression is "deaf and mute."

Obviously, poor choice of words......but keep in mind, although there is no excuse, baggage handlers are not exactly Harvard graduates.

Being deaf does not constitute stupidity. Yes.

yes it has merit how insulting and unprofessional.

they should have written hearing impaired,,

Oh please. Not the dreaded D-WORD....

can people please just get over themselves...