IDF Reserve General Explains Protocol for Distressed Passenger Jets

Retired Air Force Air Defense Commander, Major General Ran Kochav, detailed the standard operating procedure for handling a distressed passenger aircraft, particularly one transmitting a distress signal. The protocol involves attempting radio contact with the flight crew while simultaneously scrambling fighter jets to assess the situation inside the cockpit and cabin. These jets can also visually inspect the aircraft for external damage, such as to the landing gear.

Should there be suspicion of hijacking, the primary objective is to divert the aircraft and escort it to land within Israeli territory, preferably in an open area. Kochav explained that concurrently, measures are implemented in the airspace and at airports. "The next step is clearing the airspace and evacuating Ben Gurion and Ramon airports. I assume that Israeli airspace would be closed in such a situation until the exact circumstances of the flight are understood," he stated. Rescue, emergency, and counter-terrorism forces are also mobilized, though this falls outside the direct purview of the Air Force, with the initial focus on understanding the situation, the aircraft's trajectory, and potential responses.

Kochav emphasized that this scenario is regularly practiced by the Air Force, including surprise drills that integrate air traffic control with air defense systems. He noted that a ground-based interception of a passenger plane carrying approximately 180 Israeli passengers is not a practical option. However, he acknowledged the complexity of aerial terrorism, especially post-9/11, and confirmed that procedures exist for scenarios involving hijacked aircraft intending to cause harm, such as a hypothetical attack on Tel Aviv's Azrieli Towers.