Israel's Aviation Law Outlines Passenger Rights for Flight Delays and Cancellations

Israel's Air Services Law, commonly known as the "Tibi Law," governs passenger rights in cases of flight delays, cancellations, and significant changes. The law aims to protect consumers by ensuring passengers are not left helpless when flights are disrupted due to carrier-related issues. However, compensation and assistance rights depend on factors such as delay length, cancellation timing, offered alternatives, and specific circumstances.

Compensation for flight delays is not automatic for every delay; it varies by delay severity. Passengers may be entitled to assistance services like food, drinks, and communication means during waits, or to choose between an alternative flight or a refund. In prolonged delays resembling cancellations, rights may align with cancellation provisions. For cancellations, compensation depends on when the passenger was notified, the reason for cancellation, and whether a reasonable alternative flight was offered. Late notifications without suitable alternatives increase chances for broader compensation.

Monetary compensation for cancellations is tiered by flight distance: up to 2,000 km entitles passengers to 1,440 ILS, 2,000-4,500 km to 2,310 ILS, and over 4,500 km to 3,460 ILS. These amounts may be updated periodically. Assistance during delays includes meals, communication, lodging, and transport, which are legal rights, not goodwill gestures. Passengers should keep receipts for reasonable expenses.

Exceptions exist when disruptions arise from extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline's control, such as extreme weather or security risks. However, airlines must prove these claims and demonstrate efforts to minimize passenger impact. Changes in flight times or missed connections also raise complex rights questions, especially if flights were booked separately.

Passengers are advised to document all relevant details, including booking confirmations, boarding passes, notifications, and expenses, and to communicate clearly and specifically with airlines when seeking compensation or assistance. If claims are denied, passengers can request detailed explanations, provide additional evidence, and consider legal advice or small claims court if necessary. Understanding and asserting rights under the Air Services Law can help passengers secure appropriate remedies for flight disruptions.