Following a missile strike near Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport on May 4, airlines have once again suspended flights to the country. The attack has left many passengers stranded and prompted urgent responses from Israeli carriers.
Missile Strike Triggers Airline Cancellations
The missile, launched by the Houthis from Yemen, landed close to Ben Gurion Airport, narrowly missing the main check-in area. This prompted several airlines to suspend flights to Israel, causing widespread disruption for passengers traveling to and from the country. While many airlines had resumed services after earlier travel bans were lifted, this new threat has forced them to reassess their operations.
Stranded Passengers Seek Alternatives
The missile attack led to chaos for many travelers who were already en route to Israel. Passengers found themselves stranded, with others scrambling to find alternative routes home. In response, Israeli carriers launched emergency measures to help affected travelers. Airlines are working to offer accommodations, meals, and rebooking options for those stranded.
Passenger Rights in Case of Cancellation
According to aviation attorney Ehud Fai, passengers may not be eligible for financial compensation if the cancellation is due to a wartime security threat, such as the missile attack near Ben Gurion Airport. However, passengers are still entitled to either a full refund or a replacement ticket, based on their preference. Additionally, airlines are required to provide assistance, including hotel stays and meals, until the next available flight departs.
Important Advice for Travelers
Travelers are urged to keep track of airline updates regarding cancellations and service resumption. For example, the Lufthansa Group is offering free cancellations or rebooking for affected passengers. Passengers flying with Israeli carriers should check whether their flights are operated by foreign-leased aircraft, which may be less affected by the disruptions.
Insurance and Refund Options for Stranded Travelers
Travelers booking flights with Israeli carriers are encouraged to purchase travel insurance, which typically includes a refund option in the event of cancellations. It’s also crucial to verify whether existing travel insurance policies have been extended due to the current situation, as some providers are automatically extending coverage. However, travelers should always confirm this with their insurance company.
Airlines Suspending Services to Israel
As of May 2023, several airlines have suspended their services to Israel due to ongoing security concerns. Here are the details of the cancellations and expected suspension durations:
United Airlines: Suspended through May 9, possible disruptions until May 11.
Delta Air Lines: Suspended through May 20, possible disruptions until May 25.
Lufthansa Group: Suspended through May 11.
Air France: Suspended through May 13.
British Airways: Suspended through May 15.
Ryanair: Suspended through May 11.
Wizz Air: Suspended through May 8.
Air Europa: Suspended through May 7.
ITA Airways: Suspended through May 11, with two additional flights canceled on May 12.
Air India: Suspended through May 8.
Iberia: Suspended through May 9.
LOT Polish Airlines: Suspended through May 8.
Transavia: Suspended through May 13.
Aegean Airlines: Suspended through May 13.
Ethiopian Airlines: Suspended through May 7.
HiSky: Canceled flights to Chisinau on May 7 and 8.
AirBaltic: Canceled flights from May 7 to May 11, suspended ticket sales until May 18.
Air Seychelles: Flights on May 7 rerouted to Larnaca, with connections to Tel Aviv operated by Arkia. Passengers can change flight dates or request a full refund.
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