Many passengers were shocked at being welcomed to “Palestine” upon arriving in Tel Aviv via Iberia, Spain’s flag carrier and largest airline.
Spanish-speaking passengers arriving at Israel’s Ben-Gurion Airport on Wednesday from Madrid via Iberia, Spain’s largest airline, were appalled to hear the flight captain welcoming them to “Tel Aviv, Palestine.” He then repeated the greeting in English, saying they had arrived in Tel Aviv but leaving out “Palestine.” He did not mention Israel.
“Everyone began to whisper, we were simply in shock. I don’t understand why he said that. We live in the State of Israel and he was supposed to say Israel,” one passenger told Israel’s Channel 2 TV.
It must have been “intentional,” he added.
Another passenger sent a letter of complaint to the airline, saying, “My family and I were terrible offended. It was not at all acceptable and has done a disservice to your company.”
According to Times of Israel, the Spanish news website 20 Minutos reported on Thursday morning that the Israeli ambassador in Madrid penned a “tough letter” to the president of Iberia, requesting that he take disciplinary measures against the pilot.
An Iberia spokeswoman in Israel apologized on behalf of the airline following a request by Channel 2. The captain who welcomed the passengers to “Palestine” made a “mistake,” she said, and will not fly to Israel again until the matter is investigated further.
“We have been flying to Tel Aviv for a long time, and we know the city is in the State of Israel. We even promoted tourism in Tel Aviv in our magazine,” she added.
By: Terri Nir, United with Israel
Free Ebook: 10 Best Places to Visit in Israel
The Land of Israel has provided the backdrop for some of the most important events in human history. From the Old City in Jerusalem to the Sea of Galilee, people from all over the globe visit the Holy Land each year to take in the breathtaking scenery and inspiration of Israel. Now you can experience this beauty for yourself from the comforts of home and maybe plan a trip of your own to Israel. Get the free, exclusive eBook from United with Israel: The 10 Best Places to Visit in Israel.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD: 10 Best Places in Israel.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!