Major Airlines Extend Flight Cancellations to Israel: What Travelers Need to Know

Flight Cancellations to Israel Extended

The aviation industry continues to face disruptions as major international airlines extend flight cancellations to Israel due to ongoing security concerns. While some carriers, like Delta and Aegean, have resumed limited operations, others—including British Airways, Lufthansa, and Air Canada—have pushed back their return dates well into the summer and even fall.

For travelers, this means navigating last-minute cancellations, rebooking challenges, and understanding their rights regarding refunds and compensation. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the latest updates from airlines, explore passenger rights, and provide essential tips for those affected by the ongoing flight suspensions.

Current Status of Flight Cancellations to Israel (Updated May 2025)

Airlines That Have Resumed Flights

1. Delta Air Lines – Resumed daily New York (JFK) to Tel Aviv flights as of May 19, 2025.

2. Aegean Airlines – Restarted flights to Israel on May 21, 2025, after a brief suspension.

Airlines Extending Cancellations

The following airlines have prolonged their suspension of Israel flights, with some delays stretching into late 2025:

*Lufthansa Group includes Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings.

Why Are Airlines Still Canceling Flights to Israel?

The primary reason for extended cancellations remains security concerns. Following missile threats and regional instability, many carriers are conducting ongoing risk assessments before resuming operations. Key factors influencing these decisions include:

1. Airspace Safety – The risk of missile strikes near Ben Gurion Airport has led to cautious approaches from airlines.

2. Insurance and Liability – Higher insurance premiums for flights to conflict zones make operations financially risky.

3. Government Advisories – Some countries maintain travel warnings, discouraging airlines from resuming normal schedules.

Case Study: Air Canada’s Unprecedented Delay Until 2025

Air Canada initially planned to restart flights in June but has now postponed until September 2025—one of the longest suspensions announced. This decision reflects extreme caution, possibly due to:

• Long-term risk assessments

• Crew training adjustments for high-risk routes

• Reallocation of aircraft to more profitable routes

Passenger Rights: Refunds, Compensation, and Rebooking

Are Passengers Entitled to Compensation?

According to aviation attorney Ehud Fai, passengers may not receive monetary compensation if cancellations are due to war or extreme security risks. However, airlines must still provide:

• A full refund (if requested)

• Rebooking on the next available flight (including with partner airlines)

• Assistance services (hotels, meals, and transport if stranded)

EU & US Regulations: Key Differences

• EU Passengers: Under EC 261/2004, compensation is required unless the disruption is due to “extraordinary circumstances” (e.g., war).

• US Passengers: No federal compensation mandate, but airlines must offer refunds or rebooking.

What Should Affected Travelers Do?

1. Check Airline Notifications – Most carriers allow free rebooking or refunds.

2. Review Travel Insurance – Some policies cover trip interruptions due to war/security issues.

3. Consider Alternative Routes – Booking via a third country (e.g., Greece, Cyprus, or Jordan) may be an option.

Alternative Airlines Still Operating in Israel

While many international carriers remain suspended, some airlines continue flying to Tel Aviv:

• El Al (Israel’s flagship carrier, operating normally)

• Arkia (Adding new routes, including Seychelles from June 20)

• Israir (Limited European routes still available)

• Turkish Airlines (Operating via Istanbul with adjusted schedules)

Tips for Travelers Impacted by Cancellations

1. Rebooking Strategies

• Use Airline Waivers: Many airlines are offering flexible rebooking policies.

• Opt for Middle Eastern Hubs: Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad may have connecting flights.

2. Travel Insurance Considerations

• Check War Clauses: Some insurers exclude cancellations due to conflict.

• Extend Coverage: If stranded, ensure your policy remains valid.

3. Book with Israeli Airlines for More Reliability

• El Al and Arkia are less likely to cancel due to government backing.

Future Outlook: When Will Flights Fully Resume?

Experts predict a phased return of airlines based on:
✔ De-escalation of regional tensions
✔ Improved security assessments
✔ Demand from business and tourism sectors

However, full normalization may take until late 2025, especially if geopolitical risks persist.

Flight Cancellations to Israel Extended

The extended flight cancellations to Israel highlight the aviation industry’s cautious approach to security risks. While some airlines are gradually returning, others remain hesitant, leaving travelers to navigate complex rebooking and refund processes.

Key Takeaways:
✅ Delta & Aegean have resumed flights, but most others remain suspended.
✅ Passengers can get refunds or rebooking but may not receive compensation.
✅ Israeli airlines (El Al, Arkia) remain the most reliable options.
✅ Travel insurance and flexible booking policies are crucial.

Stay updated with airline announcements and consider alternative routes if your travel plans are affected. Safe travels!