Government Approves NIS 55 Million Aid Plan for Israeli Airlines

The government approved a mechanism offering up to NIS 55 million in 2026 to Israeli airlines for nearly empty flights and aircraft repositioning during Operation Lion's Roar. The Transport Ministry, through the Civil Aviation Authority and with Finance Ministry approval, will reimburse 33.5% of recognized expenses if airlines avoid dividends for one year, plus up to another 33.5% if owners inject matching capital. Reports identify El Al, Israir and Arkia as eligible, but say the carriers have not decided whether to join. Officials said security and operational restrictions forced relocations abroad to preserve Israel's air continuity.