Responding to increasing tensions between Israel and Iran, Bharatiya airline Air India has announced the suspension of all flights to and from Tel Aviv until April 30, 2024. The decision comes as a precautionary measure due to the evolving situation in the Middle East. Air India emphasized that the safety of its passengers and crew remains their top priority.
This suspension follows a previous announcement by an Air India official that direct flights between Delhi and Tel Aviv were temporarily halted. The Tata group-owned carrier had recently resumed services to the Israeli capital on March 3, after a hiatus of nearly five months. However, the escalating tensions prompted the airline to once again suspend operations.
Air India initially suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv on October 7, 2023, following an attack on the Israeli city by Hamas. The airline operates four weekly flights between New Delhi and Tel Aviv.
The decision to suspend services reflects a broader trend, with several international airlines also halting flights to the region due to security concerns.
On April 15, German airline group Lufthansa announced the suspension of flights to Amman, Beirut, Erbil, and Tel Aviv, following Iran’s missile and drone attack on Israel. UAE-based Etihad Airways and Emirates Airlines also joined the trend, canceling services to Tel Aviv and Amman and rerouting flights due to temporary airspace closures in the region.
Air India reassured passengers with confirmed bookings for travel to and from Tel Aviv during the suspension period, offering a one-time waiver on rescheduling and cancellation charges.
The airline stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and providing support to affected passengers. Travelers are advised to stay updated on any further developments and to contact Air India for assistance with their travel plans.
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