Vueling Denies Antisemitism in Removal of Jewish Teen Choir

Spanish low-cost carrier Vueling has firmly denied allegations of antisemitism following an incident at Valencia Airport (VLC) that led to the removal of 52 Jewish teenagers and their choir director from a flight bound for Paris Orly (ORY). The airline issued a statement on July 24, 2025, defending its crew and asserting that the decision was based solely on safety concerns.

The incident occurred on July 23 during boarding procedures for the flight to Paris. According to Vueling, the passengers exhibited what it described as “highly conflictive behavior,” including mishandling emergency equipment, disrupting the mandatory safety demonstration, and repeatedly ignoring cabin crew instructions. The airline also acknowledged reports that the group had been singing, which local media described as part of their choir activity.

Despite multiple warnings, the airline said the group’s behavior did not improve, prompting the crew to initiate safety protocols and request intervention from the Spanish Civil Guard. Authorities subsequently removed the entire group from the aircraft. Vueling claims some of the passengers continued to behave aggressively after being escorted off. According to Spanish outlet El Espanyol, the group’s female director was arrested during the incident.

The event quickly drew international attention, with Israel’s Minister of Diaspora and the Fight against Antisemitism, Amichai Chikli, labeling the removal as an “antisemitic incident.” In response, Vueling categorically denied any discriminatory motivation behind the decision.

“We categorically deny any claim that links our crew’s decision to the religious expression of the passengers involved, which we absolutely respect,” a Vueling spokesperson stated. “The decision was taken solely and exclusively to guarantee the safety of all passengers.”

The airline emphasized that it rejects all forms of discrimination and reiterated its commitment to respecting all passengers regardless of background or belief.

As tensions rise over differing accounts of the incident, the situation underscores the ongoing challenges airlines face when balancing passenger conduct, safety protocols, and sensitivities around cultural and religious identity. An investigation into the incident is expected to follow.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/airline-finance/