Israir Flight Returns to Athens Due to Technical Fault, Stranding Passengers

A Saturday evening Israir flight from Athens to Tel Aviv experienced chaos when the aircraft had to return to Athens International Airport approximately 40 minutes after takeoff due to a technical malfunction. Passengers were initially moved to a different aircraft later that night, but were subsequently deplaned. Dozens of Israeli passengers, including families with children, have been stranded at the Athens airport since then.

Israir explained that after the initial return, mechanics repaired the plane. However, several passengers requested to disembark, necessitating a security procedure to locate and remove their luggage from the aircraft. This process took longer than anticipated, causing the flight crew to exceed their legal working hours.

Consequently, the flight could not depart as scheduled. Israir representatives were present at the airport, providing passengers with food and drink vouchers, as well as 150 euros each for accommodation. Passengers were informed that the flight was rescheduled for Sunday at 11:30 AM. Check-in counters opened Sunday morning, and passengers received vouchers for a full meal. Israir stated that the safety and security of its passengers are always its top priority.