Israeli flag-carrier El Al is facing further financial pressure from the country’s competition regulator, which is considering imposing a fine over alleged exploitation of its position in the passenger aircraft hangar market.
The competition commission is looking to fine El Al around 110 million shekels ($35 million).
El Al says the commission is also arguing that the carrier is a “monopoly holder” in the Israeli market for aircraft handling hangars.
The airline states that it “completely disputes” the formal notification, including the claim that it has a monopolistic position.
El Al insists that it “acted lawfully” and will present its position in legal proceedings.
The commission is considering associated fines totalling 1 million shekels on two of the carrier’s personnel who were serving at the time – both of whom similarly reject the allegations.
El Al is already fighting a proposed fine of 122 million shekels from the commission over accusations that the airline charged excessive fares at a time of reduced competitor activity during the Gaza conflict.
