Ben Gurion Airport, Israel – Amidst lingering tensions between Israel and Iran, international flights to Israel are facing extended disruptions. The volatile situation has airlines altering their schedules and routes, impacting travel plans worldwide.
Israeli Airspace Remains Closed
Following a barrage of drone and missile attacks from Iran on Saturday, Israel temporarily closed its airspace. The attacks, which caused limited damage and no fatalities, have raised concerns about potential escalation. The airspace closure was lifted, but flights remain disrupted as authorities assess the situation.
Airlines Suspend and Reschedule Flights
Budget carrier easyJet has extended its flight suspension to Israel until October 27th. Passengers booked to fly during this period will be refunded. Rival airline Wizz Air has resumed flights to Tel Aviv but warns of possible schedule changes.
KLM has canceled flights to Israel until April 21st and is avoiding airspace over both Iran and Israel. Air India has temporarily suspended flights to Tel Aviv. Lufthansa Group has canceled flights to Tehran and Beirut until Thursday but has resumed operations to Tel Aviv, Amman, and Erbil.
In the United States, United Airlines, the only U.S. carrier currently flying to Israel, has offered full refunds to passengers traveling to Tel Aviv before May 1st. Air Canada has cautioned of potential delays.
European Airlines Operate amid Cautions
Despite the airspace closure, several European airlines, including Swiss, Transavia, and AeroItalia, have resumed flights to Tel Aviv. Flightradar24 data shows these flights en route at the time of writing.
However, the European Commission and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency advise airlines to exercise caution when flying over Israel and neighboring airspace within 100 nautical miles. Similar precautions are in place for airspace over Iran.
Extended Impact on Global Routes
The tensions have also affected flights over the Middle East on routes connecting Europe and Asia. Airlines are opting to avoid airspace over the volatile region, leading to longer flight times and potential delays.
Passengers are encouraged to check with their airlines for the most up-to-date information and possible flight disruptions.
Data sourced from: cnbc.com
