Delta and United Airlines canceled their flights to Israel

Due to escalating security tensions, American Airlines Delta and United Airlines announced this evening (Wednesday) the cancellation of their flights to Israel. Delta has canceled its flights for the next two days, while United has suspended flights until August 6. Delta Airlines, which resumed flights to Israel last month, canceled its daily flights from New York to Tel Aviv scheduled for tonight and tomorrow from JFK airport.

In addition to American carriers, British Airways announced it would cancel its flights to Israel starting tomorrow.

Ben Gurion Airport Operations Continue

Despite these cancellations, Ben Gurion Airport operated as usual on Wednesday. The airport authority reported that approximately 63,300 passengers on 373 international flights were expected to pass through the airport during the day. This includes about 33,200 passengers departing on international flights and 31,100 arriving in Israel.

Israeli Airlines Maintain Schedule

El Al, Israel’s national airline, stated on its website that "El Al flights are taking place as scheduled. We are in contact with the security authorities." Similarly, Israir announced it "continues to operate as usual according to the company's planned flight schedule and operates following the instructions of the security authorities and is in continuous contact with the Civil Aviation Authority."

Arkia also confirmed that it is maintaining its usual flight schedule: "As of this moment, Arkia continues to operate as usual and the company's planned flight schedule is taking place as usual. The company operates in accordance with the instructions of the aviation authorities and the security forces. If changes or updates apply, they will be published on the website and social networks."

Precautionary Measures

In April, Israel closed its airspace for seven hours in response to an extensive Iranian drone and missile attack. In light of current tensions, Lufthansa has implemented a new procedure for flights to Israel, with its planes stopping at Larnaca airport in Cyprus to change the aircrew.