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In response to escalating security concerns in the region, several major airlines have announced the suspension of flights to Israel, impacting travel plans for many passengers. The flight cancellations come as part of a broader reaction to heightened tensions and security risks.
Suspensions and Cancellations
Lufthansa has suspended all flights to Israel until August 13. Swiss International, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings have all canceled flights until August 12.
Delta Air Lines has halted its flights until August 9, while United Airlines has ceased operations to Israel until further notice. Air India’s flights are suspended until August 8.
Other European carriers have also adjusted their schedules. Italian Airlines, Iberia, Wizz Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Aegean Airlines, Air Baltic, and Bulgaria Air have all canceled flights for various periods, with most suspensions extending until early August.
KLM has taken a more prolonged approach, halting flights until October due to regional tensions. Ryanair has suspended flights until August 10.
Israeli Airlines Continue Operations
Despite the widespread cancellations, Israeli airlines have maintained their operations. El Al, Israel’s national carrier, announced that its flight schedule remains unaffected and will be enhanced in response to increased demand.
El Al will add two additional flights and continues to operate in accordance with security directives from Israeli authorities.
The airline’s flight LY545 from Tel Aviv to Athens is scheduled to depart at 11:30 AM local time on Friday, with the return flight LY546 set for 3:15 PM local time.
Israir is also continuing its planned flight schedule, adhering to instructions from security authorities and the Civil Aviation Authority.
Approximately 40 flights departed on July 31, with updates on any changes to be provided on Israir’s website and social media.
Arkia, another Israeli carrier, is working to adjust its flight schedule following the departure of foreign companies operating its planes.
Despite the disruptions, Arkia’s CEO, Oz Berlowitz, emphasized the airline’s commitment to assisting Israelis with their travel needs, particularly during the peak travel season.
Impact on Lebanon and U.S. Travel Advisories
The impact of the security situation extends beyond Israel. Lufthansa Group has announced that flights to Lebanon will not resume before August 5.
The U.S. State Department has issued a highest-level travel warning for Lebanon, advising against travel to the country and recommending that American citizens currently in Lebanon leave immediately.
The warning also advises against traveling to Gaza and suggests avoiding the northern and eastern borders with Syria. Travelers are also encouraged to reconsider visits to Israel.
El Al’s Continued Service and Support
El Al remains a crucial player in the current travel landscape, continuing to offer flights and adapting its services to meet the demands of affected passengers.
For those whose flights have been canceled, El Al is offering new flights at a uniform price for one-way economy tickets: $228 from Larnaca to Tel Aviv and $283 from Athens to Tel Aviv.
Sun Dor flights will operate normally, with some flights involving a brief stop in Larnaca, Cyprus, for crew changes.
As the security situation evolves, travelers are advised to stay updated through airline websites and official channels for the latest information on flight schedules and travel advisories.