Iberia airline's service of kosher food trays sparked opposition from an association, due to the messaging advocating for "Free Palestine" on the tray packaging.
Iberia airline is currently investigating a complaint of anti-Semitic behaviour on a flight from Buenos Aires to Madrid, which took place on August 4, 2025. The investigation was prompted by a Jewish passenger receiving a kosher meal tray with the inscription 'Free Palestine', and other Jewish passengers receiving trays marked with the initials 'FP'.
The Delegation of Argentine-Israeli Associations (DAIA) denounced this incident as a "serious act of anti-Semitism" and a "discriminatory act". Iberia, in response, categorically rejected any form of discrimination, incitement to hatred, or behaviour that undermines the dignity of individuals.
The flight in question, IB0102, was operated by Iberia itself, and it departed from Ezeiza Airport in Buenos Aires at 13:00. The flight landed at Adolfo Suárez-Madrid Barajas Airport in Madrid just before 6:00 AM on August 5.
During the flight, some passengers who ordered kosher meals reported the presence of handwritten pro-Palestinian messages on their trays. Iberia acknowledged these reports and has initiated a thorough investigation, involving both internal and external catering suppliers.
This incident is not the first time Iberia has been embroiled in controversy. In late July, another controversy involving the removal of a group of around 40 Jewish teenagers from a flight operated by a Spanish airline occurred. The location of this second controversy was between Valencia (Spain) and Paris Orly.
Salvador Auday, the passenger in question, confirmed the facts as described in the complaint to DAIA, stating it as a discriminatory situation. DAIA has condemned the incidents and contacted aviation authorities to demand explanations and immediate action.
As the investigation continues, Iberia's onboard staff are documented to have taken steps to assist the affected passengers, with the captain personally addressing them to apologise on behalf of the company. Iberia remains committed to maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment for all its passengers.
[1] DAIA's statement can be found at [link to the statement] [2] Iberia's statement can be found at [link to the statement]
In light of the incident on Iberia flight IB0102 from Buenos Aires to Madrid, both general-news and crime-and-justice sections might cover the Delegation of Argentine-Israeli Associations (DAIA)'s denouncement of the event as a "serious act of anti-Semitism" and "discriminatory act." Political discourse may also delve into the response from Iberia, which has strongly rejected any form of discrimination and is investigating the matter involving internal and external catering suppliers.
