Israel bound flight returns to UK before Shabbat causing ‘confusion and distress’

A flight from Luton airport to Tel Aviv had to return to the UK, after cabin crew were ‘feeling unwell’, just before Shabbat.

The turnaround of EasyJet flight EZY2083 caused distress for observant passengers and those travelling to a wedding on the weekend.

The flight returned “as a precautionary measure due to cabin crew members feeling unwell,” according to a statement posted on ITV, from the airline. It was delayed overnight, and passengers were to be put into accommodation, much to the dissatisfaction of Jewish passengers, some of whom were unwilling to travel on Shabbat.

On board was former Board of Deputies Treasurer, Laurence Brass, who posted on his Facebook profile: “Halfway to Israel on EasyJet when stewardess claims to feel poorly. Captain overreacts and sends the plane back to Luton where we are all stranded.

He also posted this on Twitter:

Speaking to the Jewish News, Brass said: “I don’t believe that anyone will discover the real reason why this unusual situation occurred.”

EasyJet do not appear to have taken into consideration that many passengers were unwilling to travel on Shabbat and this just added to the confusion and distress.”

“Several passengers were scheduled to attend a wedding this weekend and as the Sunday flight is fully booked will be unable to make the journey at all.”

“This is a most unsatisfactory position. I shall be seeking a full explanation from EasyJet officials.”

An EasyJet spokesman told Jewish News that in addition to offering overnight accommodation and meals, the airline also “offered passengers a refund and the option to fly with another airline and claim back the difference in the cost of the ticket.”

“They [passengers] can also transfer onto any other EasyJet flight free of charge. “

By Jack Mendel