Arkia Faces Class Action Lawsuit Over Unapproved Flights to Japan

A class action lawsuit has been filed against Israeli airline Arkia at the Central District Court, alleging that the company sold tickets for thousands of passengers on a "theoretical" new route to Japan that lacked official approval.

The lawsuit, filed by attorneys Adam Levin, Yonatan Rappaport, and Roee Biton, claims that Arkia announced the new direct flight to Japan with significant fanfare, leading thousands of Israelis to purchase tickets, book accommodations, and plan their vacations. However, the plaintiffs allege that Arkia failed to disclose that the route had not yet received any approval from Japanese authorities, particularly given the "wet lease" operational method involving another airline's aircraft and crew.

According to the filing, Arkia was actively seeking approval from Japanese authorities while simultaneously selling tickets, effectively transferring the risk of the flight not materializing onto the passengers. The plaintiffs contend that Arkia waited until the last possible moment to inform customers of the cancellations, often just weeks before their planned trips, primarily to avoid statutory compensation payments under aviation law.

Arkia has stated that it has not yet received the lawsuit and will address its details upon receipt. The airline categorically denies the allegations, asserting that it has acted and will continue to act in accordance with all necessary procedures and regulations. Arkia expressed hope that the flights to Japan would commence soon.

Separately, another class action lawsuit was filed against Arkia International by attorney Moria Shilo, also concerning the Japan route, alleging that group members were sold "dreams in the air, literally, and misrepresentations."