Arkia Sued for Millions Over Canceled Tokyo Flights Sold Without Japanese Approval

Arkia Airlines is facing a multi-million shekel class-action lawsuit for allegedly selling thousands of tickets to Tokyo before securing necessary approvals from Japanese authorities. The airline announced the cancellation of its direct flights to Japan last week, leaving passengers scrambling to accept alternative flights with layovers or receive refunds within a tight 12-hour deadline.

The lawsuit, filed in the Central District Court and seeking over 2.5 million shekels, claims Arkia sold tickets without disclosing that the flights lacked Japanese government authorization. Passengers were subsequently left to deal with canceled vacations planned months in advance. Lawyers representing the plaintiffs described Arkia's conduct as "one of the most cynical and reprehensible examples" from a commercial company, alleging Arkia sold tickets and only later checked for flight permits.

Arkia had announced the direct route to Japan in June, intended to compete with El Al. However, according to the lawsuit, the company had not yet received approval for operating the flights using a "wet lease" agreement, where an airline rents an aircraft along with its crew, maintenance, and insurance. Arkia officially canceled four flights on October 12 and the entire route on October 15, citing a lack of permission from Japanese authorities.

One plaintiff, Moshe Deri, stated he purchased two tickets for $1,728 each in September. He was initially told by customer service that the flight was proceeding as normal, but later learned from a representative that there was "no approval yet for the Japan flights!" Deri was offered a 24-hour layover flight as an alternative to the 10-11 hour direct flight, forcing him to buy more expensive El Al tickets and alter his vacation plans.

Arkia stated that the class-action lawsuit has not yet been formally received by the company. Upon receipt, Arkia will review its details and respond accordingly, while strongly rejecting the claims. The airline asserted it has acted and will continue to act according to required procedures and instructions, and hopes to operate flights to Japan soon. The company defended the 12-hour decision window, explaining the need to secure alternative flight arrangements and seats with other airlines, stating they cannot hold these indefinitely.