Israeli Workers Union Opposes Arkia Sale That Would End Sabbath Flights

The Israeli Transport Workers Union has sent a strong letter to the controlling Nakash family, owners of Arkia Airlines, warning against the ongoing sale negotiations that could halt flights on the Sabbath and Jewish holidays. The union, represented by Vice Chairman Nir Eisenberg, expressed serious concerns that the sale to a Haredi American businessman, who reportedly intends to stop weekend flights, would undermine the airline's financial stability, employee pension rights, and job security for hundreds of workers.

Currently, Arkia employees own nearly 20% of the company's shares, making them a significant stakeholder in any future transaction. The union emphasized that while respecting Sabbath observance is legitimate, using it as a business strategy to reduce operations is harmful and weakens the airline rather than investing in its growth. The Nakash family has been exploring a sale for several months, considering various Israeli and foreign investors, including a group led by the CEO of Leumit Group.

The union pledged to take all legal and public measures to protect the workers and the company's viability if the deal threatens employee rights or the airline's financial health. This development comes amid reports of advanced negotiations with the Haredi businessman, raising fears of operational changes that could disrupt Arkia's current flight schedule and impact its workforce significantly.