Brussels Airlines Staff Resist Flights to Israel Amid Security Concerns

Brussels Airlines, a subsidiary of Lufthansa, plans to resume flights between Belgium and Israel in September. However, the decision faces strong opposition from the company's employees, who cite personal safety, psychological impact, and ethical concerns due to the ongoing war in Gaza.

The Belgian trade union ACV Puls stated that the airline decided to mandate crew members for these flights after an insufficient number of volunteers came forward. Union representative Yolinde Defieu argued that forcing employees to fly to Israel, a destination still subject to Belgian Foreign Ministry advisories against non-essential travel due to a volatile security situation, contradicts the employer's duty to protect staff from safety and health risks.

Union officials recalled a significant security incident during a previous resumption of flights, where a rocket impacted near Ben Gurion Airport shortly before a scheduled departure. Despite these concerns, Brussels Airlines believes the security situation permits the resumption of flights.

This is not the first time the flights have sparked controversy. In 2025, the airline operated flights using volunteers who received additional pay. The union insists that a lack of volunteers does not justify compelling employees to fly, asserting that any worker with significant security or conscientious objections should be allowed to refuse without penalty.

ACV Puls has announced a strike notice effective September 1st. If Brussels Airlines does not alter its decision, protests and disruptions specifically affecting flights to and from Tel Aviv may occur. The union has vowed to protect any employee unwilling to fly to what they term a 'war zone.' Brussels Airlines has not yet responded to the union's position.