Flydubai Passengers May Receive $250,000 Each After Flight Incident

Passengers on a recent Flydubai flight to Israel that experienced a security incident may be eligible for compensation of approximately $250,000 per person, even if they were not physically harmed and the plane landed safely. Aviation law experts estimate this potential payout, citing similar past cases. Attorneys are considering pursuing these claims in the United States under the Montreal Convention.

Experts note that the psychological impact of such traumatic events can lead to long-term issues like anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and hearing problems. Attorney Ehud Pai, an aviation law specialist, stated that the incident could form the basis for claims of physical and emotional damages.

The flight carried 174 Israeli passengers, including many minors. The legal basis for such claims draws on a 1984 Israeli Supreme Court ruling, "The Dedon Ruling," which followed the hijacking of an Air France plane to Entebbe. The court determined that a hijacking constitutes an "accident" and that psychological harm can be considered "bodily injury" warranting compensation.

However, compensation is not automatic. Passengers must prove their damages and establish a direct link between the incident and their suffering. Under the Montreal Convention, airlines have liability up to approximately $630,000 (151,880 Special Drawing Rights) per passenger for damages incurred during flight, with potential for higher amounts based on proven losses and case specifics.