(haipo) – Delays, cancellations and last-minute changes are an integral part of the world of aviation, but many passengers are completely unaware of what they are entitled to by law. The Israeli Aviation Services Law, 2012, determines exactly what benefits, compensation and assistance services airlines must provide in various cases. We have summarized the main rights for you, in a clear, simple and convenient way.
Refusal to fly a passenger – what do you deserve?
When a passenger is denied boarding (except in cases of security, health, or improper documents), he is entitled to a variety of benefits:
- Food, Beverages and Communications
- Transportation and accommodation
- Refund or replacement card
- Financial compensation The compensation may be reduced by half if the passenger agreed to receive a replacement ticket in accordance with the terms of the law.
Flight cancellation or delay of more than 8 hours
In the event of a flight cancellation or significant delay of more than 8 hours, the passenger is entitled to almost all possible benefits:
- Food, Beverages and Communications
- Transportation and accommodation
- Refund or replacement card
- Financial compensation – the compensation may be reduced by half if an alternative ticket was offered.
Delayed takeoff – what's the difference between two hours and five hours?
Delay of more than two hours – The passenger is entitled to basic assistance services of food and beverages.
5–8 hours late – The passenger is entitled to food and drinks, transportation and accommodation depending on the circumstances, and an alternative ticket.
Advance booking – this also changes your rights
Significantly advancing a flight can affect travel planning, so the law also applies to these cases:
5–8 hours advance notice (less than 14 days notice) – The passenger is entitled to a replacement ticket or a refund.
More than 8 hours notice (less than 14 days notice) – The passenger is entitled to a replacement ticket or refund, as well as financial compensation.
Change in ticket conditions – downgrade
If a passenger is transferred to a lower class than the one he paid for, he is entitled to financial compensation proportional to the ticket price and the flight distance.
Important Information: This is a summary that does not include all the restrictions and details in the law. Some rights depend on special circumstances, such as a strike, a security situation, or advance notice.