Following Outrage from Jewish Community around the World, Lufthansa Issues Apology

BY: Yehuda Alter 

As we have reported last week, an entire group of more than 200 visibly-Jewish people was prevented from boarding a Lufthansa flight to Kerestir, following a layover in Germany—all because of a minute few who disregarded the mask mandate on the New York-Frankfurt flight. 

An entire contingent of armed policemen was called in order to enforce this order—bringing severe discomfort, and a feeling of discrimination against an entire group based on the actions of others who happened to look like them. 

It took until today for Lufthansa to issue the following statement: 

“On May 4, a large number of booked passengers were denied boarding on their onward flight with LH 1334 from Frankfurt to Budapest. Lufthansa regrets the circumstances surrounding the decision to exclude the affected passengers from the flight, for which Lufthansa sincerely apologizes,” the airline said.

“While Lufthansa is still reviewing the facts and circumstances of that day, we regret that the large group was denied boarding rather than limiting it to the non-compliant guests.

“We apologize to all the passengers unable to travel on this flight, not only for the inconvenience, but also for the offense caused and personal impact.

“Lufthansa and its employees stand behind the goal of connecting people and cultures worldwide,” the airline claimed. “Diversity and equal opportunity are core values for our company and our corporate culture. What transpired is not consistent with Lufthansa’s policies or values. We have zero-tolerance for racism, anti-Semitism and discrimination of any type.”

It remains unclear whether the passengers intend to pursue legal action against the airline.