Israeli Couple Awarded Minimal Compensation After Flight Cancellation in Dubai Amid Security Crisis

An Israeli couple stranded in Dubai for ten days after their flight to Israel was canceled due to Operation "Lion's Roar" sought 37,700 shekels in compensation from El Al Airlines. The cancellation occurred on March 2, 2026, when Israeli airspace was closed amid escalating security tensions. The couple claimed heavy expenses for hotels, food, transportation, lost income for the husband who is a self-employed plumber, and emotional distress.

El Al argued the cancellation was caused by extreme security circumstances beyond their control and that they had already refunded the couple’s flight tickets. The airline also noted that under the law, compensation for accommodation in such emergency situations is limited to two nights, not the entire ten-day period the couple was stranded.

The Bat Yam Small Claims Court largely sided with El Al, recognizing the exceptional security situation as justification for the cancellation. The court rejected claims for statutory compensation, lost income, and emotional distress. It accepted only reasonable expenses for lodging, food, and transportation for two nights, awarding the couple 5,677 shekels plus approximately 900 shekels for legal costs. Other claims, including additional expenses, were dismissed.

This ruling sets a precedent clarifying airline liability during security emergencies, emphasizing that while airlines are not fully liable for all costs, they must provide some assistance to passengers affected by such extraordinary events.