Flydubai Passengers Recognized as Victims of Hostile Acts, Eligible for Compensation

The Ministry of Defense and National Insurance have announced that passengers on a dramatic Flydubai flight, previously described as a near-disaster averted by Israeli resourcefulness, are now officially recognized as victims of hostile acts. This designation allows civilians who suffered physical or psychological harm on the flight to file claims with the National Insurance Institute for disability assessments.

While the recognition of the passengers as a group is automatic due to the collective nature of the incident, individuals must file a claim to receive compensation. Lawyer Gilad Ginzburg, an expert in tort law, explained that after initial temporary disability ratings, permanent assessments are made. The process typically takes a few months.

Financial compensation varies based on the assessed disability percentage. Those with up to 10% disability receive nothing, while 10%-19% disability grants a one-time payment ranging from NIS 63,000 to NIS 290,000. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with 20% or more disability qualifies for a lifelong monthly pension starting at NIS 1,200, along with additional benefits like academic tuition funding and National Insurance-covered medication.

Regarding potential double compensation, Ginzburg noted the complexity. Passengers cannot receive both state compensation and payments as victims of hostile acts. However, if they pursue a lawsuit against Flydubai under the Montreal Convention, they might be eligible for compensation from both the airline and the state. To receive compensation, passengers must still prove some form of physical or psychological injury, and those unable to work initially can claim lost income based on their previous salary. Unlike general disability claims, income level is not a factor in determining compensation for victims of hostile acts.