Nasrin Hadid Becomes First Druze Flight Attendant at Israeli Airline Air Haifa

Air Haifa, a young Israeli airline operating from Haifa's historic airport, is breaking new ground with its diverse staff and bilingual branding in Hebrew and Arabic. Among its crew is Nasrin Hadid, the airline's first Druze flight attendant, symbolizing the company's inclusive vision. Although Druze flight attendants have worked in other Israeli airlines, Hadid emphasizes she is "perhaps the first but certainly not the last" at Air Haifa.

Hadid, 49, from Daliyat al-Karmel, views her role as a national mission, especially after foreign airlines like Turkish Airlines ceased operations in Israel following the October 7 events. Previously working in ground services for Turkish Airlines, she joined Air Haifa during its initial recruitment phase, describing it as a cosmic coincidence and her destiny. She is part of the airline's first flight attendant training class, growing alongside the company.

She highlights the airline's multicultural environment, with both Jewish and Arab passengers and crew, reflecting Haifa's diversity. The airline's Arabic and Hebrew signage and announcements foster a sense of respect and belonging among passengers. During the recent conflict, Hadid recalls the tense evacuation of aircraft to Cyprus and the subsequent rescue flights bringing Israelis home, which she describes as a profound source of pride.

Hadid grew up in a close-knit Druze family with strong military ties and did not face opposition to her career choice, noting increased acceptance of women pursuing diverse paths in her community. She dreams of Air Haifa expanding with more planes, destinations, and staff from all sectors, emphasizing teamwork and coexistence. Proud to represent both her airline and her Druze heritage, she sees these identities as intertwined.