Air France Bars Pakistani Crew From Israel Flights After Flydubai Attack

Air France has barred Pakistani pilots and cabin crew from operating flights to and from Israel after Israeli authorities tightened enforcement of nationality-based restrictions for airline personnel. The move follows reports tied to an alleged cockpit attack aboard a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv on September 30, 2026, involving Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami. Authorities classify nationals of countries without diplomatic relations with Israel as subject to the limits. The restrictions have also prompted United Airlines and Czech carrier Smartwings to adjust crew planning. Air France confirmed compliance, while United embedded the requirements into assignment procedures. In a separate case, Israeli authorities ordered an Ethiopian Airlines flight to turn back after discovering an Indonesian pilot on board.