Israir Flight Returns to Athens Twice, Stranding Passengers for Hours

A Saturday evening Israir flight from Athens to Tel Aviv experienced significant disruptions, forcing the aircraft to return to Athens International Airport twice due to technical issues. The flight, initially scheduled to depart at 7:00 PM, was already delayed by approximately two hours due to a reported mechanical problem that was supposedly fixed.

After about 40 minutes in the air, the plane turned back to Athens. Passengers were then boarded onto a different aircraft, but were subsequently deplaned. Dozens of Israeli passengers, including families with children, were left stranded at the Athens airport for hours.

One passenger described the situation as "disgraceful," stating that after being re-boarded onto a second plane, they waited for another two hours before being told takeoff was impossible and they would be updated. She further alleged that passengers were left to sleep on the "freezing" airport floor, with luggage being unloaded and getting wet, and no company representative present until 4:00 AM.

Israir stated that after the initial return, mechanics addressed the issue. However, some passengers requested to deplane, necessitating a security procedure to locate and unload their luggage. This process, according to the airline, exceeded the crew's legal working hours, preventing the flight from departing again. The airline claims representatives were present, provided food and drink vouchers, and 150 euros per passenger for accommodation. Passengers were informed the flight was rescheduled for 11:30 AM the following day, with check-in desks opening that morning and full meal vouchers provided. Israir reiterated that passenger safety is their top priority.