Air France Enforces Israeli Crew Restrictions After Hijacking

Air France has confirmed adherence to new Israeli regulations that prohibit certain foreign nationals from serving as pilots or cabin crew on flights to Israel. This directive affects citizens from 31 countries, primarily Muslim-majority nations, including Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, and Tunisia.

The airline informed its employees about these restrictions, emphasizing compliance with entry regulations established by the countries it serves. The Israeli Ministry of Transport and Road Safety issued this directive on October 1, stating that pilots and cabin crew must not hold the nationality or dual nationality of countries without diplomatic relations with Israel.

This measure follows an alleged hijacking attempt on a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30, where an Omani co-pilot reportedly attacked the Indian pilot. The pilot is currently receiving hospital treatment.

Other airlines, including Smartwings, have acknowledged the directive but reported no disruptions to their operations.