Israir passengers stranded in London after service vehicle damages plane

Israir flight 116 from London Luton Airport to Tel Aviv was canceled Thursday evening after a pushback tug damaged the aircraft during towing. This incident, reportedly the third of its kind at the airport, left passengers stranded. Passengers, including Shabbat observant individuals, were removed from the plane after waiting for hours without air conditioning, with one passenger describing it as "an absolute NIGHTMARE." Israir provided accommodations and transportation, offering to reimburse food and travel expenses. The airline stated, "The safety and security of the passengers is the company's top priority," and apologized for the inconvenience, noting the event was beyond its control.