Israeli Government Approves Up to 55 Million Shekels Compensation for Airlines Over Empty Flights in Operation 'Roaring Lion'

The Israeli government has approved a compensation plan proposed by Transportation Minister Miri Regev and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to reimburse Israeli airlines for empty flights conducted during Operation "Roaring Lion." The total aid package will amount to up to 55 million shekels in 2026.

The compensation will be offered in two tiers for airlines to choose from. In the first tier, companies can receive a refund covering 33.5% of recognized expenses, provided they commit to not distributing profits to shareholders for one year. In the second tier, airlines may obtain an additional refund of up to 33.5% of expenses, contingent on shareholders injecting equity into the company equal to the state's participation.

Overall, the government support can cover up to approximately two-thirds of the recognized costs incurred by the airlines due to the empty flights during the operation.