Major international carriers, including British Airways and Air France, announced they would be suspending flights to and from Tel Aviv until at least mid-October. Similarly, Lufthansa and Wizz Air also ceased operations on routes to both Israeli and Lebanese destinations. These suspensions, which are subject to further review depending on the conflict’s trajectory, come at a time when regional airspace has become a zone of heightened caution.
With Hezbollah’s increased rocket attacks targeting northern Israeli cities and Israeli strikes on Hezbollah positions in Lebanon, airlines are prioritizing safety concerns for their passengers and crew. The continued airstrikes and the growing risk of civilian aircraft being caught in the conflict have made it untenable for carriers to maintain regular flight schedules.
Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport, a major hub for international flights, has seen its operations dwindle as both commercial and private airlines halt their services. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has also issued advisories on the high risks for flights in the area. This disruption not only impacts tourism and business travel but also hampers evacuation efforts for foreign nationals in the region.
Travelers have been advised to check with airlines for alternative routes or rescheduled flights, though options remain limited due to the fluidity of the situation. Airlines have expressed intentions to resume services once security conditions improve, but the timeline remains uncertain.
With Hezbollah continuing to threaten more extensive rocket attacks and Israel’s retaliatory airstrikes intensifying, the situation is highly volatile. Diplomatic efforts aimed at brokering a ceasefire are underway, but no formal agreement has been reached at this time.