Full Breakdown
El Al Cancels Tel Aviv-Hanoi Service After Security Clearance Denied
8/18/2026, 6:17:39 AM
Flight Cancellation Over Security Clearance
El Al announced on Thursday that it is dropping a planned passenger service between Tel Aviv and Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, because the Israeli Security Agency (Shin Bet) would not grant the necessary security permits for flights operated with Israeli crews and aircraft. The airline said it had formally requested the clearance but was informed that the permits could not be issued.
Planned Expansion of Asian Routes
The Hanoi route was part of a broader expansion unveiled by El Al in February, which also included new services to Manila, Seoul, Sardinia, Sicily, Switzerland and Croatia. The Hanoi flight had been slated to begin operations in October.
Airline Response to Customers
Following the cancellation, El Al issued an apology to affected passengers and outlined three reimbursement options: (1) replacement flights to alternative destinations, (2) connecting itineraries to Hanoi on other carriers, or full refunds in cash or vouchers. The airline’s statement emphasized its commitment to minimizing inconvenience for travelers.
Implications for Israel-Vietnam Air Links
The inability to secure Shin Bet approval highlights the role of security considerations in shaping Israel’s international air connectivity. While El Al continues to pursue new routes across Europe and Asia, the halted Hanoi service underscores potential regulatory hurdles that can affect bilateral travel and trade initiatives between Israel and Southeast Asian markets.
