Waris Ahluwalia satisfied with Aeromexico's apology over turban dispute

An Indian-American actor and designer who says he was not allowed to board a Mexico City-to-New York flight because he refused to remove his turban says he's satisfied with an apology by the airline, Aeromexico.

• Waris Ahluwalia, Sikh actor and designer, barred from flight over turban dispute

Waris Ahluwalia says he is now just waiting for the carrier to implement special training on how to treat Sikh passengers, for whom the headgear carries deep religious significance.

Ahluwalia told The Associated Press on Tuesday that "we're just a few steps away from a lot of hugs."

Aeromexico posted a statement on its website apologizing to Ahluwalia.

"We are a global airline that operates flights in different countries throughout the world and proudly embrace and recognize the diversity of our passengers. Every day, we work to ensure that we are in strict compliance with the highest safety standards, while respecting and valuing the culture and beliefs of our customers.

We apologize to Mr. Waris Ahluwalia for the unfortunate experience he had with one of our security guards during the boarding process prior to his flight to New York at the Mexico City International Airport.

This incident inspires us to make sure that we strengthen the customer service protocols of our safety personnel in respectful accordance with the cultural and religious values of our customers."