Employees at Arkia Israel Airlines have warned they will resist any attempt by the Nakash brothers to sell their controlling stake to ultra-Orthodox investors, citing fears that such a transaction would halt flights on the Jewish Sabbath.
The threat of industrial action introduces a new layer of operational uncertainty for the carrier, which is Israel's second-largest airline.
The potential buyout has sparked immediate backlash from the workforce, who argue that a change in ownership to Haredi investors would fundamentally alter the airline's operating model.
Arkia currently operates flights on Shabbat, a service that would likely be discontinued under the proposed new ownership structure.
The employees' vow to fight the deal suggests that any transaction could face significant labor hurdles, potentially disrupting schedules and service levels.
This development adds to the complex landscape facing Israeli businesses amid ongoing regional tensions.