Lufthansa Faces Backlash After Reportedly Banning Jews From Flight Over Mask Dispute

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May 10, 2022

Image copyright: Getty Images [via The New York Post]story last updated Jun 21, 2022

The Facts

Lufthansa is facing accusations of antisemitism after reports emerged that over 100 Orthodox Jewish passengers were barred from boarding a connecting flight from Frankfurt to Budapest last week over a mask dispute.
The group had been traveling from JFK for a religious pilgrimage in Hungary, with a stopover in Frankfurt. The dispute reportedly arose after a handful refused to wear masks on the first leg of the journey.

The Spin

Narrative A

This is outrageous. The only commonality between the passengers - many of whom were strangers - was that they shared the ethnicity and religion of the alleged rule violators. Lufthansa's weak apology only pours oil on the flames. They must be held accountable and the affected passengers should be compensated.

Jewish Journal

Narrative B

Though many wish it to be, COVID isn't over. Masks are a tool to protect everyone, especially passengers on an airplane. Though the situation could have been handled better, Lufthansa was merely abiding by legal requirements and ensuring the safety of other passengers. The airline is reviewing the events, and has already issued an apology.