The Israeli government is poised to endorse a financial assistance plan amounting to NIS 9 million to support local airlines that fly from Dubai to Israel. This decision follows the recent suspension of operations by flydubai, stranding numerous Israeli travelers in Dubai without a viable means to return home.
Government’s Financial Support for Airlines
According to a resolution drafted by the Transportation Ministry, should the need arise, the government will assist in covering the costs associated with transporting empty planes from Israel to Dubai. Additionally, it will facilitate the transport of passengers’ luggage on separate cargo flights back to Israel. The urgency for this measure is underscored by the inadequate capacity of available connecting flights for those trying to return.
Challenges Faced by Stranded Travelers
With many Israelis reliant on flydubai for travel, the sudden suspension of flights left thousands stranded in Dubai. Although Israeli airlines began organizing repatriation flights on Friday, navigating security restrictions has complicated and increased the costs of these operations. Currently, planes must leave Israel to Dubai without passengers, complicating the transfer of luggage which cannot be accommodated on the return flights.
Economic Viability Concerns
The Transportation Ministry has raised alarms that the costs incurred from flying empty planes may render these operations economically unfeasible. This financial strain could potentially lead airlines to limit their flights, negatively impacting the volume of necessary travel. According to the proposed plan, while Israelis will continue to buy tickets as normal, the state’s support will only kick in if ticket sales fail to cover operational costs.
Arrangements for Passenger Luggage
In response to requests from the United Arab Emirates, separate arrangements will be made to handle the luggage belonging to passengers departing from Dubai. The Transportation Ministry, in coordination with the Defense Ministry, will oversee the transport of luggage back to Israel on dedicated cargo flights until normal security procedures allow for luggage to be loaded onto passenger flights.
In summary, the Israeli government’s proactive measures aim to ensure that travelers can return home amid logistical hurdles, while also providing a safety net for local airlines facing financial pressure. This assistance scheme is capped at NIS 9 million, designed to ensure operations remain viable without undermining airlines that are already capable of sustaining flights.