El Al Passengers Threaten Lawsuit Over "Premium Price, Low-Cost Service" Switch
Translated & summarized from Ice by baba
El Al passengers booked on flights to Prague are angered after their bookings were transferred to the low-cost Sun D'Or subsidiary, resulting in a downgraded service. Passengers who paid premium prices are now facing reduced amenities, loss of business class, and unexpected cancellation fees. Some customers are considering a class-action lawsuit against El Al due to the discrepancy between advertised services and the actual flight experience.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- El Al passengers booked for Prague flights are suing after being moved to low-cost Sun D'Or.
- Passengers paid premium prices but received low-cost service, including fewer amenities.
- Business class passengers face confusion over refunds and compensation after its cancellation.
- El Al's website still advertises flights as operated by the main airline.
- Affected customers are considering a class-action lawsuit against the airline.
Passengers who booked flights with Israeli airline El Al to Prague, Czech Republic, were surprised this week to find their flights transferred from the main carrier to its low-cost subsidiary, Sun D'Or. El Al stated the move aims to improve flight frequency and availability for Israeli travelers, utilizing a wider-body aircraft that can accommodate more passengers. The airline plans to operate approximately 11 flights weekly, with two flights daily except for Fridays, when only one morning flight will be available.
This change has angered many passengers who claim they paid premium prices for El Al service but received a low-cost experience. Passengers report a decline in service, including a move to Terminal 1, loss of lounge access, and reduced catering. Furthermore, customers seeking to cancel their flights are reportedly being charged full cancellation fees, despite the change being initiated by the airline. Passengers who booked business class, which is unavailable on these Sun D'Or flights, are facing confusion and inconsistent responses from customer service regarding refunds and compensation.
Criticism is mounting as El Al's website continues to advertise certain flights as operated by the main airline, even after they have been transferred to Sun D'Or. This discrepancy between the booking presentation and actual conditions is leading new customers into similar situations. Some affected customers are reportedly considering filing a class-action lawsuit against the company, as reported by Globes.
Following the change, El Al announced compensation options for passengers. Ticket holders can choose to proceed with their trip and be downgraded to economy class, or cancel their flight. Those who choose to fly will receive financial compensation according to the law within 21 days of their flight.
