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Lufthansa announced on Thursday that it will once again delay the resumption of flights to and from Israel, following an internal security review amid the ongoing conflict in the region.
The airline group confirmed that the suspension of flights would continue at least through May 25, extending the halt that has been in place since October 2023.
The Lufthansa Group, which includes Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings, has not operated any flights to or from Israel since the suspension began.
Passengers holding tickets for flights scheduled during this period are offered flexibility, with the option to cancel free of charge or reschedule their travel dates.
The group stressed that it is actively working with customers to find alternative arrangements, although no official date has yet been set to restart service.
This extension highlights the ongoing caution among airlines regarding the volatile security situation in Israel, where the outbreak of war in October 2023 led many carriers to suspend operations.
Lufthansa, one of the world’s oldest and largest airlines, commands a significant presence in Europe and the United States with a vast fleet flying to over 200 destinations worldwide. Its decision to prolong the suspension underscores the seriousness of security risks perceived in the region.
Ben Gurion Airport, Israel’s main international gateway, remains operational but under heightened security and surveillance measures, as the conflict continues to impact civilian and commercial activity.
Lufthansa’s ongoing suspension reflects broader concerns within the global aviation industry about flying in potentially unstable airspace.
The impact of Lufthansa’s decision goes beyond its own operations. As a major European flag carrier, Lufthansa’s stance often influences other international airlines.
Industry observers note that other major carriers—such as British Airways, Air France, and KLM—have taken a similar cautious approach, delaying their return to flights over or into Israel and closely monitoring developments before resuming service.
The airline industry balances safety considerations with financial and operational challenges. Avoiding an early return to the Israeli airspace amid uncertainty is a clear priority to protect passengers, crew, and assets from potential threats.
This approach aims to prevent disruptions or incidents that could arise from an unpredictable security environment.
Lufthansa’s announcement is part of a wider trend of airlines adjusting schedules and routes worldwide in response to geopolitical risks and conflicts.
For passengers, the suspension means continued disruptions and uncertainties, but also reassurances that safety remains paramount.
As of now, Lufthansa has not indicated when it will be safe to resume flights, and the decision will likely depend on developments on the ground in Israel as well as assessments by aviation safety and security authorities.
The ongoing conflict’s impact on air travel illustrates the broader effects of regional instability on global mobility and commerce.
Lufthansa’s cautious stance sends a clear message: in times of conflict, even the largest and most established airlines prioritize safety and prudence over expedient returns to service.
Passengers booked on Lufthansa Group flights to or from Israel are advised to remain in close contact with the airline for updates and alternative arrangements as the situation continues to evolve.