Flight Canceled or Delayed? Everything You Need to Know About Passenger Rights – Especially During Wartime
What should you do when your flight is canceled? Are you entitled to compensation if there’s a delay? And what happens during war or a security emergency? If you find yourself with a packed suitcase and a canceled flight – this guide is written just for you. This guide covers your passenger rights under Israeli and international law.
What is the difference between a flight delay and a flight cancellation?
First of all – it is important to understand the definitions:
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Flight Delay – The flight actually departs, but with a delay of two hours or more.
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Flight Cancellation – The flight does not take place at all, or an alternative flight is provided on a different route or with a different flight number.
What are your passenger rights according to the law?
In Israel, there is the “Aviation Services Law” (also known as the Tibi Law), which protects passengers on flights departing from Israel, ensuring compensation or assistance depending on the length of the delay or the reason for the cancellation. Additionally, for flights from or to Europe – the European Union regulation EC 261 also applies.
For flights departing from Israel – the law stipulates:
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Delay of two hours or more – You are entitled to services such as drinks, light meals, and communication services.
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Delay of 5 hours or more – You can request a full refund or an alternative flight.
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Delay or cancellation of 8 hours or more – You may be entitled to financial compensation ranging from 1,300 NIS to 3,100 NIS (depending on the length of the flight).
For flights departing from Europe – the European Union regulations stipulate:
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Delay of 3 hours or more – Compensation of 250–600 euros, depending on the distance.
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Short notice flight cancellation – Entitles you to compensation, unless “force majeure” applies.
What happens during war or an emergency?
In cases of war, missile fire, airspace closure, or security escalation – most airlines will claim “extraordinary circumstances” (force majeure), meaning a situation beyond their control, and therefore will not be obligated to provide financial compensation.
However, even in such cases, in most instances, the company will offer one or more of the following options:
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Alternative flight at a later date
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Voucher for a future flight
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Full refund for the purchased ticket
It is important to clarify that policy varies between airlines, and there are significant differences from one company to another.
We do not bear responsibility for the interpretation of the law or the conduct of the companies – therefore, it is recommended to check directly with the relevant company.
Flight Hunter’s Tip:
Keep all documentation: tickets, booking confirmations, correspondence with the company – everything. These documents may be the difference between receiving full compensation and having your request denied.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Am I entitled to compensation if I received an alternative flight delayed by a day?
– Possibly, depending on the flight distance, the duration of the delay, and the reason for the cancellation.
Is a voucher considered full compensation?
– A voucher is usually an alternative offer, but if you prefer a refund, you can request it.
What about canceled connecting flights?
– Even with stopover flights, the law applies if the purchase was made in the same booking.
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The information is sourced from across the web, please verify the precise details with the relevant authority.
