Paris Air Traffic Controller Caught Sending ‘Free Palestine’ Message to El Al Pilots
El Al reports incident at Charles de Gaulle Airport where a controller broke protocol with anti-Israel message; case referred to Israeli and French authorities.
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An unusual and politically charged incident occurred at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport when El Al pilots preparing for landing received an unexpected anti-Israel message from the local air traffic controller.
According to a report by Ynet, the French controller managing the Boeing aircraft’s descent suddenly broadcast the words “Free Palestine” over the communication channel — in violation of strict regulations requiring that only professional, flight-related messages be transmitted to pilots.
El Al issued a statement condemning the incident: “El Al views with utmost severity the incident in which a French air traffic controller addressed our pilots in an unprofessional and inappropriate manner. We are working with the relevant authorities in Israel, who are in contact with their counterparts in France. El Al will continue to fly proudly around the world with the Israeli flag on its tail, maintaining professionalism and ensuring the safety and security of our passengers and crews.”
The incident comes amid recent tensions between Israel and French authorities. On Monday, it was reported that France has refused to renew visas for Israeli security personnel who accompany flights departing from Israel.