Ryanair apologises after staff member wore pro-Palestine badge in Stansted dispute
Airline launches internal investigation and reminds staff political symbols are banned after complaint from Jewish passenger
Ryanair has apologised and launched an internal investigation after a complaint that a staff member wore a pro-Palestine badge while assisting passengers at London Stansted Airport.
The airline said the incident, which took place at a Ryanair help desk on 21 February, breached its policy prohibiting employees from displaying political symbols while on duty.
A Ryanair spokesperson said: “It is not Ryanair policy for staff to wear badges, symbols or other items that might be considered political, divisive or potentially offensive to passengers or colleagues, and we sincerely apologise for any offence or concern that may have arisen where this policy was not adhered to.”
The complaint was raised by the legal advocacy group UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI), which said a passenger reported that a member of staff had been wearing a badge showing a clenched fist wrapped in the Palestinian flag – imagery commonly associated with the “Free Palestine” movement.
According to UKLFI, the passenger politely questioned the badge but alleged the staff member reacted angrily, calling him “racist” and “disgusting” and threatening to cancel his ticket.
In its response, Ryanair said it had reminded staff of its longstanding dress code rules banning political paraphernalia while employees are in uniform or dealing with passengers.
The airline said the policy covers items such as badges or symbols that could reasonably be considered offensive or cause discomfort to passengers, including the Palestine-themed badge described in the complaint.
Ryanair also confirmed the staff member’s alleged behaviour during the interaction is being reviewed under internal disciplinary procedures.
UKLFI said symbols associated with the “Free Palestine” movement could feel intimidating to Jewish or Israeli passengers when displayed by frontline staff.
A spokesperson for the organisation said: “We appreciate Ryanair taking the issue seriously and reminding staff of its policy on political insignia. Public-facing staff should remain neutral to ensure that passengers from all backgrounds feel respected.”
Ryanair said it opposes all forms of discrimination, including antisemitism, and noted that its workforce represents more than 65 nationalities operating across dozens of countries.
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