Israel has implemented a ban on pilots and cabin crew from Pakistan and other nations lacking diplomatic relations with the country from operating flights that enter its airspace. This decision follows an attempted hijacking incident that occurred on September 30, involving a flight from the UAE to Israel. Reports indicate that the restrictions were introduced as a direct response to this serious security breach.

The incident involved an aircraft operated by flydubai, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. During the flight, the Omani co-pilot allegedly attacked Indian captain Smit Machchhar, who sustained injuries while attempting to thwart the hijacking attempt. The plane was subsequently diverted to Saudi Arabia after the co-pilot reportedly tried to seize control and crash it into Ben-Gurion Airport in Israel.

According to Israeli public broadcaster Kan, the updated directives were issued by the Transportation Ministry’s Aviation Security Operations Centre. Following the incident, the ministry communicated these new restrictions to foreign airlines on October 1, emphasising the need for enhanced security measures in light of the attempted hijacking.

Impact on International Airlines

The newly enforced policy has significant implications for international airlines operating flights to Israel. It prohibits the employment of pilots and cabin crew who are nationals or dual nationals of countries without formal diplomatic ties to Israel. This affects crew members from over two dozen nations, including Pakistan, Iran, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, and Tunisia, as well as individuals holding dual nationality from these countries.

In response to these restrictions, Air France has begun adjusting its crew assignments to comply with the new regulations. Reports from French investigative website Mediapart indicate that the airline circulated an internal memo to its staff, informing them of the restrictions and cautioning against non-compliance, which could lead to sanctions. Similarly, United Airlines has notified its employees about the changes and requested that affected pilots and flight attendants reach out to the scheduling department for necessary adjustments.

Haaretz reported that United Airlines has already altered crew assignments in light of the new policy, reflecting the immediate impact of the restrictions on operations. The swift actions taken by these airlines underscore the seriousness with which the aviation industry is treating the recent security threat.

Reactions and Security Reviews

Following the hijacking attempt, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a comprehensive review of security protocols for foreign civilian flights entering Israeli airspace. This decision highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of air travel in the region, particularly in the wake of such a serious incident.

Captain Smit Machchhar, who was injured during the attempted hijacking, is currently recovering in a hospital in the UAE. Despite his injuries, he managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to intervene and subdue the Omani co-pilot. His actions have been widely praised, with leaders from around the world, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Netanyahu, and US President Donald Trump, recognising him as a hero for his bravery during the crisis.

The new restrictions on foreign flight crews mark a significant shift in Israel’s aviation security policy, aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. As airlines adjust their operations to comply with these regulations, the focus remains on enhancing safety for all flights entering Israeli airspace.

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