A French air traffic controller at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport has been suspended after broadcasting a “Free Palestine” statement during radio communications with an aircraft bound for Tel Aviv.
The incident was reported by the El Al flight crew, prompting an immediate investigation. “After a thorough analysis of air traffic control recordings, the facts have been established,” French Transport Minister Philippe Tarabot wrote on social media platform X, adding that a disciplinary procedure was immediately launched.
Tarabot stressed that the transmission breached international radio communication protocols, which require controllers to use the channel exclusively for ensuring the safe and orderly movement of aircraft.
“The sanction must be commensurate with the seriousness of the facts,” the minister added.
L’analyse des enregistrements prouve que les faits sont avérés.
L’auteur a été identifié, en la personne d’un contrôleur aérien. Il s’est vu retirer toute possibilité d’exercer jusqu’à nouvel ordre. Une procédure disciplinaire a été immédiatement engagée.
La sanction devra… https://t.co/Ojyb1siXdE
— Philippe Tabarot (@PhilippeTabarot) August 12, 2025