Story perspectives

Israel Reopens Airspace, Resumes Flights Amid Crisis

3/5/2026

Summary

Airlines Resume Flights

Israel's airspace is reopening, enabling airlines to resume flights to Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv.
Israir Airlines will operate five flights Thursday from Rome and Berlin.
Arkia Israeli Airlines will run one flight from Rome and several from Athens and Larnaca.
El Al Israel Airlines will run rescue flights from more than 20 cities to repatriate about 40,000 passengers.
Ticket sales are paused from March 15 to 21.

History

Historical Context

The Yom Kippur War began on October 6, 1973, when Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack on Israel during the Jewish holy day. This conflict temporarily closed Israeli airspace, disrupting travel. Following the war, El Al Airlines resumed operations, facilitating passenger returns. Today, the reopening of airspace near Tel Aviv allows Israir and Arkia Airlines to connect with major European cities, underscoring air travel's significance for Israel's economy.

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Airlines Resume Flights

Israel's airspace is reopening, enabling airlines to resume flights to Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv.
Israir Airlines will operate five flights Thursday from Rome and Berlin.
Arkia Israeli Airlines will run one flight from Rome and several from Athens and Larnaca.
El Al Israel Airlines will run rescue flights from more than 20 cities to repatriate about 40,000 passengers.
Ticket sales are paused from March 15 to 21.

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