Full Breakdown
El Al Airlines Seeks Urgent Changes Amid Ongoing Conflict
4/3/2026, 5:07:23 AM
Urgent Request for Legislative Adaptation
El Al Israel Airlines Ltd. (TASE:ELAL) has formally requested Minister of Transport Miri Regev to invoke a temporary order that would adapt the Aviation Services Law to the current wartime conditions affecting operations at Ben Gurion Airport. The airline's letter highlights critical operational limitations, including a cap of 50 passengers on departing flights and a restriction of one aircraft per hour, which hinder regular and economically viable flight operations. El Al argues that these constraints could severely impact its financial stability.
Proposed Changes to Aviation Services Law
The airline's central demand is for a temporary modification of the Aviation Services Law to align with the emergency conditions. El Al seeks to eliminate passengers' rights to compensation for flight cancellations, adjustments to accommodation entitlements, and alternative flight provisions. These changes, according to El Al, are essential for airlines to operate effectively under the current restrictions without incurring unsustainable costs.
Economic Impact of the Conflict
The letter outlines a dire economic situation for El Al during the ongoing conflict. The airline estimates that on days without any commercial flight activity, it incurs direct losses of approximately $5 million. Even with limited operations, the revenue generated fails to cover operational costs, exacerbated by high expenses related to maintaining aircraft under exceptional conditions. The airline also cites external factors contributing to rising costs, such as increased jet fuel prices and currency fluctuations.
Call for Collaborative Solutions
El Al has urged the Ministry of Transport and the Knesset Economic Affairs Committee to engage in immediate discussions with relevant stakeholders. The goal is to devise solutions that would facilitate the continuation of Israeli aviation activities during the war. The airline warns that the economic repercussions may extend beyond the conflict, as it will require additional time to return to normal operations once hostilities cease.
Criticism & Opposition
While El Al's request aims to address immediate operational challenges, there may be dissenting opinions regarding the proposed changes to passenger rights. Critics could argue that altering compensation entitlements undermines consumer protections, particularly during a time of crisis when passengers may be most vulnerable.
Verbatim Quotes
- “According to the company's estimates, on days when there was no commercial flight activity at all, the direct damage was about $5 million per day.” — El Al Israel Airlines
As the situation evolves, the implications of El Al's request and the broader impact on the aviation industry in Israel remain to be seen.
