Israel Airports Authority Considers Removing Labor Union Chair After Terminal Chaos

Following unexpected labor strikes at Ben Gurion Airport, the Israel Airports Authority is intensifying actions against the workers' union chairman, Pinhas Idan. Yiftach Ron-Tal, chairman of the Authority's council, has requested a legal review to potentially revoke the exceptional extension of Idan's term, which was approved about three months ago. Concurrently, the Authority announced the dismissal of Idan's assistant, Reuven Nagar, after it was revealed that he had been signing attendance sheets without actually working for years. The Civil Service Commission continues to investigate the matter.

Idan has responded by appealing to the labor court, arguing that the porters are forced to work six days a week in 12-hour shifts and denying that the union was responsible for the airport shutdown. The Authority rejects these claims, stating that the early departure of the porters caused the disruptions and unusual congestion at the airport.

This development follows the labor unrest that severely affected operations at Israel's main international airport, prompting the Authority to consider significant leadership changes within the union representation to restore order and prevent future disruptions.