Full Breakdown
Resumption of Flight Operations at Ben Gurion Airport Following Ceasefire with Iran
4/10/2026, 9:31:01 PM
Overview of the Core Event
Israel's Ben Gurion Airport has fully reopened its airspace and resumed regular operations as of midnight following a ceasefire agreement between the United States, Israel, and Iran. This marks a significant shift after weeks of restricted air traffic due to the conflict that began on February 28.
Gradual Return to Normal Operations
The Israeli Transportation Ministry announced the resumption of full operations at Ben Gurion Airport, the country's primary international gateway. The Israel Airports Authority is collaborating with relevant partners to restore services, including duty-free shops and terminal facilities. While the airport is operational, the return of foreign airlines is expected to be gradual, contingent on regulatory approvals from their home countries.
Israeli airlines, including El Al, Arkia, and Israir, are preparing to expand their flight schedules significantly. El Al plans to operate flights to approximately 30 destinations, including major cities in Europe and North America, while Arkia aims to resume a full flight schedule by May 3. Both airlines are prioritizing passengers whose flights were canceled during the conflict.
Impact on Air Travel Demand and Pricing
The reopening of Ben Gurion Airport comes amid a surge in demand for travel, as many Israelis are eager to plan vacations after weeks of restrictions. However, the limited capacity of available flights has led to skyrocketing airfares. For instance, tickets for flights to New York have reportedly surged to over $2,000, compared to around $1,200 prior to the conflict. Travel industry experts anticipate that prices will remain elevated until more foreign airlines resume operations.
Caution Among Foreign Airlines
Despite the ceasefire, many major foreign carriers, including United Airlines and Delta, have extended their flight suspensions to and from Israel through September. European airlines are also cautious, with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency extending advisories against flying in certain Middle Eastern airspaces. Airlines like Wizz Air and Bluebird Airways have announced plans to gradually resume operations, but the overall return of international flights is expected to be slow.
Official Statements and Responses
Transportation Minister Miri Regev emphasized the importance of a cautious approach, stating, “As soon as we can, we will return and we will do so immediately.” Meanwhile, Sharon Kedmi, director general of the Israel Airports Authority, noted that airport staff remained on duty during the conflict to ensure a swift return to operations.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics have pointed out that the rapid increase in airfares could hinder travel plans for many Israelis, especially families looking to vacation during the upcoming summer months. The lack of competition from foreign airlines, which have not yet resumed flights, is seen as a contributing factor to the rising costs.
What's Next?
As Israeli airlines ramp up operations, the focus will be on monitoring the security situation and the stability of the ceasefire. The gradual return of foreign airlines is anticipated, but full normalization of air travel may take weeks or months, depending on ongoing assessments of regional safety.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Due to operational complexity and the reorganization of flight schedules, the return to routine operations cannot happen all at once,” — El Al spokesperson
- “We expect a gradual return starting at the end of April, with additional airlines resuming operations in May and even as late as September, such as United Airlines and Air Canada,” — Shirley Cohen-Orkaby, Eshet Tours
- “The safety and security of the passengers, the crew, and the aircraft remain at the top of the company’s priorities, which is in contact with all the relevant authorities and with the passengers who are affected by the situation.” — Wizz Air statement
