Airlines cancel Tel Aviv flights due to Hamas attack in Israel.
US Airlines Cancel Flights to Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport Amidst Hamas Attacks
Following the deadly terror attacks by Hamas and Israel’s strong response, several United States-based airlines have made the decision to cancel all flights to Israel’s largest international airport, Ben Gurion Airport. Situated just outside Tel Aviv, this airport is located less than 40 miles from Gaza, where rocket barrages continue to pose a threat. With Israel declaring war against Hamas and the conflict intensifying, airlines are taking precautions to ensure the safety of their passengers and protect their interests.
Delta Airlines Takes a Stand
Delta Airlines has made a significant move by announcing the cancellation of all flights to Tel Aviv for the remainder of October. Previously, the airline had suspended flights through this week. In response to this decision, Delta Airlines has provided information on rebooking flights and has expressed its intention to collaborate with the U.S. government in facilitating the return of American citizens who wish to come back home.
American Airlines Monitors the Situation
American Airlines has also suspended flights to Tel Aviv until Friday as it closely monitors the rapidly changing situation in Israel. The company has issued a travel alert, outlining its policies and fees during this period.
United Airlines Remains Cautious
While United Airlines proceeded with two scheduled flights to Tel Aviv over the weekend, the airline has decided to suspend all further flights until conditions allow for their safe resumption. United Airlines has issued a travel alert for the area, providing options for affected travelers.
EL AL Airlines Operates as Scheduled
Israel’s EL AL Airlines has stated that it operates based on instructions from Israel’s armed forces and has confirmed that its flights are operating as scheduled. However, all flights departing from Tel Aviv are now departing from a single terminal.
International Airlines Join the Suspension
In addition to U.S. airlines, several international airlines, including Air Canada, Ryanair from Ireland, and Lufthansa from Germany, have also suspended flights to Tel Aviv for varying durations.
The U.S. State Department advises American citizens in Israel to monitor flights from Ben Gurion International Airport and suggests that those in Gaza who wish to leave should check the status of the Rafah Crossing into Egypt for safe passage.
On Monday, FlightAware reported that 142 flights were canceled at Ben Gurion Airport, with an additional 172 flights experiencing delays. Within the U.S., there were 14 cancellations involving flights to, from, or within Tel Aviv on that day.
The death toll from the recent attacks stands at nearly 1,600 people, including Hamas soldiers. Hamas currently holds 150 hostages and has threatened to execute them if further attacks on civilians occur without warning.
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How are American Airlines and United Airlines responding to the ongoing conflict in Israel in terms of their flights to Ben Gurion Airport?
American Airlines has not canceled all flights to Ben Gurion Airport but has decided to monitor the situation closely. The airline is working closely with the U.S. government and local authorities to assess the ongoing conflict and ensure the safety of its passengers. American Airlines has informed travelers that they can make changes to their travel plans without penalty, should they feel uncomfortable flying to Israel at this time.
United Airlines Evaluates the Risks
United Airlines, like American Airlines, has chosen to evaluate the risks associated with flying to Israel rather than canceling all flights outright. The airline has stated that it will continue to operate flights as long as the situation remains safe and secure. United Airlines is monitoring the situation closely and is ready to make any necessary changes should the circumstances require it.
Impact on Israeli Tourism
The cancellation of flights to Ben Gurion Airport by U.S. airlines is a severe blow to the Israeli tourism industry. Ben Gurion Airport is the main gateway for international travelers visiting Israel, and the lack of flights will certainly have a negative impact on tourism revenues. Many tourists and business travelers who had plans to visit Israel may now have to reconsider or postpone their trips. The tourism industry in Israel, already suffering due to the COVID-19 pandemic, now faces additional challenges with the ongoing conflict and the lack of accessibility for international visitors.
Conclusion
The decision by U.S. airlines to cancel or monitor flights to Ben Gurion Airport in response to the Hamas attacks reflects their commitment to passenger safety. While it is a necessary measure to ensure the well-being of travelers, it also poses significant challenges to the Israeli tourism industry. As the conflict continues, it remains to be seen when flights to Israel will resume and how long it will take for the tourism industry to recover. In the meantime, it is essential for airlines, governments, and stakeholders to work together to find solutions that prioritize safety and support the recovery of the tourism sector.
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