Air France Enforces Israeli Ban Affecting Pakistani Pilots

Air France is implementing a ban affecting pilots and cabin crew members from 31 countries, including Pakistan, that do not have diplomatic relations with Israel. This restriction, mandated by Israel's Transport Ministry, applies to flights to and within Israeli airspace. The ban extends to French nationals who also hold dual citizenship from these countries.

The Israeli order, issued on October 1, 2026, requires airlines to ensure that personnel meeting the nationality criteria are not allowed to operate flights to Israel. Air France has complied by notifying its staff of the restrictions, requiring them to declare any secondary nationality, and may impose disciplinary action on those in violation.

Pakistan is one of the 31 nations subject to the ban, along with countries such as Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Iran, Oman, and Tunisia. The ban arose following an alleged incident involving an Omani co-pilot attempting to hijack a FlyDubai flight bound for Tel Aviv on September 30, 2026, which was later thwarted. Israeli authorities are reportedly reviewing the backgrounds of pilots and cabin crew in response to the directive.

While Air France has complied with the Israeli requirement, its decision has raised legal concerns under French labor and anti-discrimination laws, prompting criticism from some French politicians.