BRUSSELS — The first Brussels–Tel Aviv flight in months departed this week only after management staff and volunteers stepped in to replace baggage handlers who refused to load luggage in protest against flights to Israel.
The refusal by ground staff at Brussels Airport was organized through unions linked to Alyzia, a handling company. Union leaders argued that employees should be exempt from serving flights to Israel “for moral reasons” tied to the Gaza conflict.
Despite the disruption, the flight departed as scheduled after supervisors and office staff took on baggage-handling duties, a move hailed by Jewish groups as a stand against efforts to isolate Israel.
“This was an attempt to weaponize the workplace against Israel and the Jewish people,” said a representative of the European Jewish Association. “The fact that volunteers ensured the plane flew shows that efforts to boycott Israel will not succeed.”
The unions have demanded a broader boycott of Israeli carriers, including El Al. Aviation analysts warn that politicising civil aviation sets a dangerous precedent, threatening the neutrality of airports and airlines.
Brussels Airlines confirmed that service to Tel Aviv will continue, with volunteers ensuring continuity where needed. “We are committed to operating this route safely and reliably,” the airline said in a statement.
Jewish community leaders noted that Israel has faced years of boycott attempts through the BDS campaign, yet remains a global hub for innovation, security, and commerce.
“Israel will stay connected to the world,” said one leader. “Attempts to sever that connection only expose the extremism behind these so-called protests.”
This article is based on verified information from Ynetnews, Aviation Pros, Yemen Press Agency, PressTV, and social media posts substantiated by primary reporting.