British Airways apologises over 'Palestinian Territories' marker over Israel on in-flight map

A picture of the in-flight map shown on the British Airways plane (Julia MacFarlane)

British Airways has apologised for displaying an in-flight map with the words “Palestinian Territories” covering part of Israel.

The image appears on flights between Heathrow and Israel and was brought to the airline’s attention by a Jewish passenger.

British Airways has contacted the manufacturer and requested that the reference be removed as soon as possible.

However, in an email British Airways customer liaison executive Karen Stobbs told the passenger that the work would be completed by December 2013.

“I can only apologise that this isn't an immediate action,” said Ms Stobbs.

“I appreciate this is a very sensitive issue and I am sorry for how this would have made you feel when it appeared at the time.”

She added: “As a global airline, the widely differing origins of our passengers and even our staff are a matter of pride rather than otherwise.”

Peace talks between Israel and Palestinian leaders began again in July after a three-year hiatus, but were earlier this month branded “futile” by Yasser Abed Rabbo, a top aide to Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas.

A British airways spokesperson said: “The phrase appears on an inflight map system installed on a small number of our aircraft.

“We apologise for any offence caused.”