International airlines continue to delay flights to and from Israeli-occupied territories, causing a significant impact on travel, according to Israeli business outlet Calcalist.
British Airways announced it will not resume flights to Israeli-occupied airports until the end of March 2025, having suspended operations in August. Similarly, the Lufthansa Group extended its flight suspension to November 10, affecting Austrian Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, and Brussels Airlines, while Eurowings has paused flights until November 30.
Currently, only 20 foreign airlines are operating at Israeli airports, reflecting a major reduction in travel options.
In recent days, several airlines extended their suspensions, with Polish LOT halting flights until November 12, Greek Aegean Airlines until November 5, and both Air Baltic and ITA extending to the end of November. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has stopped flights until the end of December, while Wizz Air won’t resume until mid-January.
Aviation Crisis
Calcalist also noted the growing crisis in Israeli aviation, driven by worsening security. The reduced presence of foreign airlines has led to fewer passenger flights and hindered air cargo transportation. This year, air transport costs soared by 200%, with fewer flights available, particularly over the last two months.
Goods and raw materials bound for Israel are delayed in airports worldwide, disrupting local factories. Israeli exporters are struggling to meet commitments, with available flights becoming scarce, affecting product deliveries and harming manufacturers’ reputations.
Economic Impact
The aviation crisis has intensified due to Israel’s war in Gaza and conflicts on other fronts. The situation worsened in late July when many airlines suspended flights after the assassination of Hezbollah commander Fouad Shukr in Beirut and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.
As Israeli airlines like El Al, Arkia, and Israir try to cope with the demand, their limited capacity can’t meet growing cargo needs. Industry experts have noted transport costs rising to €9 per kilogram, tripling in the past year.
The prospect of further military conflict, including a potential attack on Iran, raises additional concerns about worsening conditions and further damage to Israel’s economy.