About 300 Israir Passengers Stranded in London After Ground Vehicle Hits Plane

Approximately 300 passengers on Israir Flight 116 from London Luton Airport to Tel Aviv were stranded after a ground service vehicle collided with their aircraft during towing preparations, causing significant damage and flight cancellation. The incident occurred on the evening before departure, leaving families, children, and Sabbath-observant travelers trapped on the plane for hours, often without adequate air conditioning or ventilation. Passengers described a tense situation where doors were eventually opened without stairs attached, posing safety risks but allowing some relief. After several hours and some medical incidents, stairs were connected, and passengers disembarked, only to face further delays waiting for luggage and transportation to hotels. Passengers reported poor communication and lack of Israir representatives to provide updates or solutions, prompting some to contact the Israeli Foreign Ministry and media.

Israir confirmed the unusual accident involved a service vehicle responsible for towing the plane, marking the third such incident at London Luton Airport without a formal investigation by airport management. The airline stated it arranged transfers and accommodations for passengers, offering reimbursements for those who booked independently. Israir is coordinating with relevant authorities to operate a rescue flight as soon as possible, though Sabbath-observant travelers will only be able to fly back after the Sabbath ends, on Sunday. The airline apologized for the inconvenience, emphasizing passenger safety as its top priority and pledging continued support until all travelers return to Israel.