Air France Enforces Israeli Ban on Pilots from Certain Nationalities

Air France has agreed to enforce an Israeli order that restricts pilots and cabin crew from certain nationalities on flights to Israel, including those from Muslim-majority countries, according to a Mediapart investigation. The Israeli Ministry of Transport issued the directive on October 1. The restrictions cover 31 nationalities, such as Algerian, Tunisian, Iranian, and Pakistani citizens.

The directive requires airlines to ensure that crew entering Israeli airspace do not hold the nationality or dual nationality of a country without diplomatic relations with Israel. Air France warned affected staff to declare a second nationality or face disciplinary sanctions. The airline's enforcement of the restrictions could expose it to a legal challenge in France.

Air France and Air France-KLM are operating within an affected market in Europe as of May 29, 2026.