Manufacturers Association President to Government: Open the Skies for Cargo

The President of the Manufacturers Association of Israel (MAI), Avraham Novogrotzky, issued an urgent appeal to government ministers and the head of the National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA), demanding immediate action to ensure the continuity of Israel's air trade and supply chain resilience amidst "Operation Lion's Roar." The letter reveals alarming economic data regarding the impact of flight disruptions on Israeli industry.

According to estimates by the MAI Economics Division, the value of daily air exports is estimated at approximately $94.4 million (of which about $85 million is industrial goods exports). This is a critical figure, as approximately 57% of Israel's total export revenue originates from air freight and specialized logistics infrastructure.

"The continuation of the current situation endangers the ability of companies to continue operating and delivering their products," Novogrotzky wrote in his letter. He emphasized that the total closure of airspace has dramatic consequences not only for immediate cash flow but also for the reputation of Israeli exports worldwide and the ability to maintain long-term business relationships.

The Association reports an accumulation of inquiries from manufacturers in critical sectors, including pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and food, who are desperate for large-scale air freight solutions and aircraft capable of carrying heavy cargo to maintain global supply chain commitments.

Novogrotzky noted that although there has been an improvement in the state's preparedness compared to previous operations, the existing response is still far from meeting the economy's needs for consistent freight forwarding services.

"I call for urgent action to open the skies to air transport to ensure the continuity of exports and economic activity," the Association President concluded. "Rapid solutions must be implemented to prevent irreversible damage to the economic front of the State of Israel."