Impact of the Iran War on Air Travel from Tel Aviv

After 40 days of significant disruptions due to the war with Iran, Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport has reopened fully. Israeli airlines, including El Al, Arkia, and Israir, are working to restore regular flight schedules to meet the anticipated surge in demand as Israelis plan vacations for the spring and summer months. However, foreign carriers remain hesitant to resume flights, primarily due to ongoing concerns about regional stability following a two-week truce with Iran announced recently. This situation has led to soaring airfares, as the limited capacity of available seats fails to meet the high demand from travelers.

Times of Israel

Most European airlines have suspended flights to and from Israel through April and into May, while US carriers have postponed their return until at least September. For instance, United Airlines has extended its suspension of nonstop flights from New York to Ben Gurion Airport through September 7, and Delta Airlines has canceled services until September 5. The Hungarian low-cost airline Wizz Air has also extended its suspension through April 27. These cancellations have left Israeli travelers largely reliant on local carriers, which are now experiencing a significant increase in ticket prices. For example, airfares for flights to New York in August have surged to over $2,000, compared to less than $1,200 six months ago.

Times of Israel

Experts predict that if foreign airlines decide to resume operations, European carriers are likely to return to Tel Aviv before their US counterparts. Shirley Cohen-Orkaby, vice president of Eshet Tours, noted that the return of foreign airlines will be gradual and not instantaneous. It is expected that some airlines may begin resuming flights by the end of April, with others potentially following in May or as late as September. However, even with a ceasefire in place, it may take weeks or months for airfares to stabilize, as airlines will need time to reallocate aircraft and crews.

Times of Israel

Travel industry experts have expressed concerns over the rising airfares, which are exacerbated by the limited competition due to the absence of foreign airlines. Yoni Waxman, deputy chairman of Ophir Tours, highlighted that the high prices are a direct result of low seat availability relative to demand. This situation has left many travelers feeling frustrated, as they face exorbitant costs for flights to popular destinations such as the Greek islands and Eastern Europe.

Times of Israel

• “The airfares of Israeli airlines are already skyrocketing because of expectations of strong travel demand in the coming weeks and especially during the summer months,” — Yoni Waxman, Deputy Chairman of Ophir Tours

Times of Israel

• “Israelis are eager to go on vacation; they feel stifled after a prolonged period of war, and as the situation stabilizes, we expect demand to increase day by day,” — Shirley Cohen-Orkaby, Vice President of Eshet Tours

Times of Israel

• “The return of foreign airlines will be gradual, and from past experience we know it does not happen all at once,” — Shirley Cohen-Orkaby, Vice President of Eshet Tours

Times of Israel

As the situation in the region evolves, the air travel landscape from Tel Aviv remains uncertain. While the reopening of Ben Gurion Airport marks a significant step forward, the reliance on Israeli carriers and the high cost of airfares pose challenges for travelers eager to resume their travel plans. The gradual return of foreign airlines will be closely monitored as the region stabilizes.

Times of Israel