As the security situation in Israel and the broader Middle East continues to evolve, many travelers face significant disruptions to their plans. Numerous airlines are suspending or canceling flights to and from Israel, so it’s essential to stay informed about which airlines are still operating and how long these disruptions might last. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate these changes, updated as of 17/08/2024.
Major Airlines Suspend Flights
Several major European airlines have extended their suspension of flights to Israel and other parts of the Middle East due to ongoing security concerns. The Lufthansa Group, which includes Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Swiss, and Eurowings, has suspended all flights to Tel Aviv, Amman, Beirut, Erbil, and Tehran until August 21. The airline has offered affected passengers the option to rebook or cancel their flights free of charge.
Budget carrier Ryanair has also canceled all flights to and from Tel Aviv until August 28, citing operational restrictions beyond their control. Air France and its subsidiary Transavia suspended flights to Beirut until August 14, while US-based United Airlines stopped all services to Israel in the foreseeable future.
Impact on Other Airlines Flight Cancellations
In April, EasyJet decided to suspend all flights to and from Israel until the end of the summer 2024 schedule on October 27. KLM, the Dutch airline, canceled all Tel Aviv services until October 26. The list of airlines that have halted operations in Israel continues to grow, with the following changes being announced:
- United Airlines and Delta: Flights canceled until August 31.
- Croatia Airlines: Suspended flights with no specified return date.
- Air Europa and ITA: Flights canceled until August 15.
- Iberia Express, Hainan Airlines, and Vueling: Flights to Israel are canceled until mid-August.
- LOT Polish Airlines: Flights canceled until August 12, with ticket sales suspended until August 18.
- Romanian TAROM: Flights are canceled until August 12.
- Aegean Airlines and Air Baltic: Flights canceled until August 18, with Air Baltic stopping ticket sales until August 25.
- Air India: Flights suspended until October 24, with ticket sales blocked until October 27.
Airlines Resuming Operations
Despite these widespread cancellations, some airlines have resumed services to Israel. Notably, Israeli airline El Al and British Airways continue to operate flights from London Heathrow to Tel Aviv. Wizz Air has also restarted its flights to Israel in recent days, and Bulgaria Air and Ethiopian Airlines have returned to operating their services after briefly canceling flights last weekend.
What Travelers Need to Know about Flight Cancellations
Over twenty airlines are canceling or suspending flights to Israel, which understandably makes travelers anxious. If your flight has been canceled, it’s crucial to stay updated on real-time changes and explore alternative routes or rebooking options offered by your airline. Additionally, consider contacting your airline’s customer service for the latest information and potential refunds or flight changes.
As the situation in Israel remains fluid, this information is subject to change. Be sure to monitor updates from your airline and official travel advisories.
Final Note
Travel disruptions due to security situations can be challenging, but with the correct information, you can manage your travel plans effectively. Stay informed, be proactive, and, most importantly, stay safe.
If you’re facing cancellations and need reliable ground transportation, consider using our van transfer services to and from Ben Gurion Airport. I offer comfortable and convenient transfers that can adapt to last-minute changes in your travel schedule, helping you avoid additional stress during these uncertain times. This article is from 17/08/2024 to reflect the most current information.