Arkia Airlines' announced Sunday that their pilots had issued a strike, grounding the airliner's ART and Gulfstream planes, which run the line to Eilat.
The announcement comes a day after three Arkia pilots informed the company that they were "sick."
As a result of the strike, scheduled flights to and from Eilat are experiencing unexpected disruptions, and it comes during the high tourist season of the holiday of Sukkot.
According to Arkia "Due to the surprising and illegal strike of Turbo carrier pilots, flight disruptions are expected today on inland routes (to and from Eilat). Passengers are asked to check for updates both on our website and through the company's orders."
Contrary to the company, Chairman of the Worker's Committee, Aliza Balaish, argued that "there are no strikes or sanctions." She said, "We are in a transition period of seasons now and some pilots are sick. It happens. "
The Airport Authority said there are "unexpected delays in Sde Dov, Haifa and Eilat airports. Starting from 10 a.m, flights with Arkia Airlines have been disrupted at Sde Dov Airport. Passengers are advised to inquire with Arkia by phone or through the company's website."