Israel's airlines have asked the national government for emergency assistance to cover losses sustained as a result of the continuing conflict in Gaza.
In a letter signed by the chief executives of El Al, Arkia and Israir, and addressed to the ministers of transportation, finance, economy and tourism, the airlines requested a reduction in operator fees at Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion International airport, until the end of 2014.
The airlines are also requesting state-guaranteed loans to pay suppliers and to boost cash flow; and are also seeking a grant to cover the cost of the many pilots and technical staff called up by military reserve units.