A Belgian labor union has issued a formal strike notice over Brussels Airlines’ decision to require employees to work flights to Tel Aviv after the airline moved away from an earlier arrangement under which only volunteers would initially staff the route.
The ACV Puls union said Brussels Airlines had changed its previous understanding with workers regarding the resumption of Israel flights. According to the union, employees have serious concerns not only about physical safety, but also about what it described as the “mental and ethical” impact of operating the flights.
The union argues that requiring employees to fly to Israel under the current circumstances is inconsistent with an employer’s responsibility to protect workers from health and security risks. A union representative also referred to the war and used the term “genocide in Gaza,” making clear that the opposition involves political and ethical objections in addition to security concerns.
The strike notice took effect Tuesday, September 1. ACV Puls warned that if Brussels Airlines does not reverse its decision, labor actions could follow that would affect only flights to and from Israel. The union also said it would support employees who refuse to fly to Israel, which it describes as a war zone.
The union cited Belgian Foreign Ministry travel warnings concerning the security situation and noted that during a previous attempt to resume Tel Aviv service, a missile struck the grounds of Ben Gurion Airport shortly before one of the airline’s flights was scheduled to depart.
Brussels Airlines responded that safety remains its highest priority. The carrier said Tel Aviv flights resumed during the summer and were initially operated by volunteer employees. Following what the airline described as a successful resumption of service, it said normal crew-assignment procedures can now return. Brussels Airlines added that it and other Lufthansa Group carriers continue monitoring developments and could alter procedures depending on the situation.
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2 Responses
Not sure I would want to fly Brussels Airlines anyway after seeing what contempt their employees have for Jews. Since they are so concerned about the “genocide,” I would suggest they organize emergency rescue flights to take Gazans to Belgium where they can live safely among their friends.
The union’s claim of “genocide in Gaza” is a political statement, not a factual assessment of the situation in Israel. Airlines must operate based on objective safety data and not give in to political pressure dressed up as ethical concern. If flights are safe, they should fly. The idea that employees can refuse work for political reasons sets a dangerous precedent for any business.