The escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon continues to disrupt air travel, with British Airways becoming the latest major airline to suspend flights to and from Tel Aviv. The airline announced on Monday that it will halt all flights to the Israeli city until March 2025, citing safety concerns and the unpredictable nature of the conflict.
British Airways’ decision follows a trend of airlines scaling back operations in the region. Budget carrier Wizz Air has already suspended flights to Israel until January 15, 2024, while Delta Airlines has extended its cancellations until at least the end of March 2024. These cancellations are a direct result of the conflict’s impact on Israeli airspace and regional security, creating an environment of uncertainty for both airlines and passengers.
The situation has become increasingly volatile in recent weeks. On Monday afternoon, Israeli security forces briefly halted all take-offs and landings at Ben Gurion International Airport, causing significant disruption. While the suspension lasted less than 30 minutes, it underscores the heightened security concerns surrounding air travel in the region. During this period, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported shooting down five drones over the Mediterranean Sea, further demonstrating the precarious nature of the airspace.
Other international airlines have also taken steps to minimize their exposure to the conflict. Lufthansa, the major German airline, has stopped flights to Tel Aviv until November 10, and its low-cost subsidiary, Eurowings, has suspended operations until November 30. These decisions reflect the shared concern among many international carriers about the safety of their operations in Israeli airspace.
While international airlines are scaling back, Israeli carriers like Arkia, El Al, and Israir are still flying to and from Tel Aviv. These airlines have maintained their routes, only suspending operations when Ben Gurion International Airport or Israeli airspace is closed. This persistence allows for essential travel to continue, even amid the instability. Arkia recently even launched a new route between Manchester and Tel Aviv, demonstrating a commitment to keeping connections open for those who still need to travel.
The continued suspension of flights by international airlines is causing major disruptions for travelers. Whether flying for business or leisure, travelers are now facing fewer options to reach Israel. This is particularly concerning as Tel Aviv plays a crucial role in international business, especially in the tech and finance sectors. The tourism industry is also taking a significant hit, as Tel Aviv’s lively beaches, rich history, and modern culture are becoming less accessible for tourists.
While Israeli airlines are continuing to operate, they cannot meet the full demand, and the situation remains fluid. Anyone needing to fly to or from Israel should be prepared for potential last-minute changes or cancellations. With tensions between Israel and Hezbollah remaining high, it’s likely that we will see further disruptions in air travel to the region. British Airways’ decision to extend the suspension until March 2025 suggests that they do not anticipate the situation stabilizing anytime soon. Safety remains the top priority for airlines, and until the conflict cools, international carriers are unlikely to resume their normal operations.
The skies over Tel Aviv are significantly quieter than they used to be. The full impact on the travel and tourism industry is yet to be seen, but if the conflict persists, it could take a long time for things to return to normal. Travelers should keep a close eye on travel advisories and stay updated on airline announcements to make informed decisions about their trips.