Full Breakdown
Israeli Airlines Face Major Flight Cancellations Ahead of Passover
3/20/2026, 6:32:44 PM
Impact of Wartime Restrictions on Air Travel
As the Passover holiday approaches, Israeli airlines El Al, Israir, and Arkia have significantly reduced their flight operations due to ongoing wartime airspace restrictions at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport. These limitations, which have been in place since February 28 following joint military actions by Israel and the United States against Iran, have resulted in the cancellation of approximately 80% to 90% of regular flights. El Al has suspended its flight schedule through March 27, while Israir and Arkia have canceled flights through March 31 and March 28, respectively.
Adjusted Flight Schedules and Limited Destinations
In response to the restrictions, airlines are operating a wartime flight schedule with limited destinations. El Al plans to operate flights to 12 cities, including New York, Miami, and Tokyo, between March 21 and 28. However, flights to major European cities such as Rome, Amsterdam, and Lisbon have been canceled. Arkia will also provide limited flights to destinations like Paris and Athens, while Israir has adjusted its schedule to include flights to cities such as Athens, Budapest, and Frankfurt.
Alternative Travel Options Amid Seat Shortages
With the significant reduction in available flights, travelers are increasingly seeking alternative routes through neighboring countries. Options now include departing from Aqaba in Jordan and Taba in Egypt, although these alternatives come with higher costs and more restrictive conditions. For instance, Arkia has announced special flights from Aqaba to European destinations, with one-way fares starting at $599. Other airlines, such as Blue Bird Airways, are also increasing flights from Taba, further highlighting the acute seat shortage and rising prices driven by the current operational limits.
Official Statements and Responses
The Transportation Ministry has reiterated that restrictions on passenger numbers per flight will remain in effect, limiting wide-body aircraft to approximately 130 passengers and narrow-body aircraft to 120. El Al has stated that it will add more flights once restrictions are eased, while travelers are advised to make last-minute decisions due to the unpredictable security situation. Mark Feldman, CEO of Ziontours Jerusalem, emphasized the challenges faced by travelers, noting, “Right now, a minimal amount of flights to a minimal amount of destinations are operated with the minimal amount of people permitted.”
Criticism and Opposition
Critics have expressed concern over the impact of these restrictions on travelers, particularly as the Passover holiday approaches. Many passengers have been left without viable travel options, prompting airlines to offer refunds or vouchers worth 130% of the original booking. The ongoing situation has led to frustration among travelers who are unable to plan their trips more than a few days in advance.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While airlines have made adjustments to their flight schedules, there remains uncertainty regarding the duration of these restrictions and the potential for further cancellations. The Transportation Ministry's decision to tighten limits on outbound flights has been met with mixed reactions, with some sources indicating that the situation may change rapidly based on security developments.
What's Next
As Passover begins at sundown on April 1, travelers are urged to stay informed about flight availability and potential changes to the operational framework at Ben Gurion Airport. The situation remains fluid, with airlines and authorities closely monitoring security conditions to determine the feasibility of expanding flight operations.
