In response to the ongoing crisis of flight cancellations to Israel due to threats from Iran, Hezbollah, and other terrorist organizations, Transportation Minister Miri Regev and aviation industry leaders held a special press conference to outline their plans for the coming days.
Regev announced that starting in the next few days, airports in Athens, Greece, and Larnaca, Cyprus, will serve as hubs for Israelis stranded abroad. This move comes in light of the suspension of operations by foreign airlines. Flight routes from Israel to Athens and Cyprus will be significantly increased to facilitate the return of Israelis or enable them to fly from these hubs to various destinations worldwide.
Flight Hubs in Greece and Cyprus
The aviation industry estimates that several hundred thousand Israelis are currently abroad, with around 3,000 reporting difficulties in obtaining flights to consulates in various countries. Specific reports include approximately 700 Israelis in India, 550 in North America, 300 in Poland, 290 in Italy, and 150 in Germany. The actual number of Israelis stranded abroad is likely higher than reported.
Limited Capacity of Israeli Airlines
Israeli airlines El Al, Arkia, and Israir are struggling to meet the high demand for flights to and from Israel due to a limited number of aircraft and the peak tourism season. In response, the Ministry of Transportation has presented a plan to bring Israelis from Cyprus to Israel using sea shuttles or Air Force flights.
Sea and Air Transport Solutions
Regev revealed that the shipping administration has already coordinated the operation of sea shuttles with a Cypriot company, using ferries to transport stranded Israelis. These measures are expected to be implemented next week, with the possibility of being expedited if necessary. The ministry also explored the option of using ships from companies like Meno Shipping, but these vessels are currently occupied due to high demand.
Potential Use of Air Force Flights
To address the situation, Regev raised the possibility of using Hercules planes for Air Force flights to return stranded Israelis from Cyprus. This proposal was discussed with Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi and Defense Minister Yoav Galant during recent cabinet discussions. While not the preferred option, Regev emphasized that "if reality requires, we will have to act."
The Ministry of Transportation remains committed to ensuring the safe return of Israeli citizens and will continue to adapt its plans based on the evolving
situation and needs of those stranded abroad.
