No Compensation for Passengers Stranded at Ben Gurion Airport Amid Disruptions

Hundreds of thousands of passengers faced flight cancellations, delays, and unexpected expenses at Ben Gurion Airport last Thursday, but they are unlikely to receive financial compensation. Israeli aviation law, known as the Tibi Law, protects passengers in cases of cancellations or delays but exempts airlines from paying compensation when disruptions result from extraordinary circumstances beyond their control, such as extreme weather, war, or strikes by external workers. These were the conditions that caused the recent chaos at the airport.

Attorney David Shpachter, who helped draft the Tibi Law, explained that while passengers theoretically can sue the Histadrut (Israel's labor federation), the chances of receiving compensation are minimal. Airlines remain obligated to provide alternative tickets and cover related expenses such as food, drinks, and lodging when necessary. For example, Air France passengers whose landing was canceled were accommodated with hotels and alternative flights, and El Al passengers from New York who had their flight postponed due to Sabbath observance also received lodging and meal expenses.

Passengers who did not receive assistance can still claim reimbursement for documented expenses directly from the airline. However, compensation for emotional distress or inconvenience caused by the disruptions is not supported under current law. Shpachter emphasized that the right to strike is strongly protected in Israel, making compensation claims against the Histadrut unlikely to succeed. Thus, while airlines must provide basic support, financial compensation for the widespread disruption at Ben Gurion Airport is not guaranteed under existing regulations.