An Israir Airbus A320 was confiscated by Portuguese authorities in Lisbon on Monday 7 Sivan, reportedly due to a debt to Portuguese airline Euro Atlantic amounting to millions. The CEO of the airline took his case against Israir to the nation’s highest court, showing his proof regarding a debt dating back seven years.

Despite a court ruling against Israir in December 2014, officials explain that Israir has not paid so Euro Atlantic decided to file for collection proceedings. Senior Israir officials including CEO Uri Sirkis are now on their way to Portugal in an effort to resolve the matter and release the plane from authorities.

The confiscation of the plane has led to delays and scheduling changes for Israir. According to Israir, it owes Euro Atlantic €2 million as per the court’s ruling. All efforts to resolve the situation by Israeli diplomatic and political officials in Israel and Portugal were rejected by Euro Atlantic, which appears firm in demanding the amount owed as per the court, nothing less.

Another Israir plane this week was grounded due to engine issues. With two planes out of service the airline is struggling to maintain a schedule as the airline only operates six planes.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)