Key Takeaways
• Ben Gurion Airport will have over 120 new flights scheduled for August 2025 amid regional conflict recovery.
• United Airlines restarts Tel Aviv–New York/Newark route July 21 with 56 extra August flights.
• ETA-IL electronic authorization required 72 hours before travel for visa-exempt visitors to Israel.
Israel’s main international gateway, Ben Gurion Airport, is seeing a dramatic surge in activity as foreign airlines return in large numbers. After months of disruption caused by regional hostilities, over 120 new flights have been scheduled for August 2025, signaling a strong recovery in international travel to and from Israel. This rapid expansion follows a late-June ceasefire between Israel and Iran, which has helped restore confidence among airlines and travelers alike.
The reopening of Ben Gurion Airport to regular international traffic marks a turning point for Israel’s aviation sector. Major foreign airlines, including United Airlines, are resuming or expanding their services, offering travelers more choices and reconnecting Israel with key destinations worldwide. The government’s swift policy changes and close coordination with airlines have played a crucial role in this recovery, but some challenges and uncertainties remain.
Ben Gurion Airport Reopens: A New Wave of Flights
As of July 13, 2025, Ben Gurion Airport is nearly back to full operation. The airport had faced severe disruptions due to the conflict with Iran and ongoing regional instability, leading to widespread flight cancellations and a sharp drop in international arrivals. Now, with the security situation stabilizing, airlines are racing to restore their schedules.
- At least 120 new flights are set for August, with many foreign airlines returning sooner than expected.
- United Airlines will restart its Tel Aviv–New York/Newark route on July 21, beginning with one daily flight and increasing to two daily flights from July 22. In August alone, United will add 56 extra flights between Tel Aviv and New York, making it easier for travelers to move between Israel and the United States 🇺🇸.
- Wizz Air is gradually bringing back its services, starting with Tel Aviv–Larnaca and Budapest from August 8, Dubai from August 15, and London from August 22. More routes, including Vienna, Milan, Rome, Iasi, and Sofia, will resume from September 1. The airline plans to increase its weekly flights from 10 to 18 by the end of August.
- Lufthansa Group (including Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings) and Aegean Airlines are also resuming flights in August. Aegean will return to Athens, Crete, and Larnaca from July 14, with more destinations to follow.
- Air France resumed daily Paris–Tel Aviv flights on July 7, while Air Europa brought forward its Madrid–Tel Aviv service to July 14.
- Other carriers, such as Ethiopian Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways, and Turkish Airlines, have also restored or expanded their operations.
- ITA Airways has maintained uninterrupted daily Rome–Tel Aviv service since February, providing a vital link during the crisis.
- Israeli airlines, including El Al, Israir, Arkia, and Air Haifa, have continued regular service, offering multiple daily nonstops from major global cities.
This rapid return of foreign airlines to Ben Gurion Airport is a clear sign of renewed confidence in Israel’s aviation sector and the country’s ability to manage security risks.
Airlines Still on Hold: Delays and Suspensions
Despite the positive momentum, not all airlines have resumed operations. Some carriers remain cautious, citing ongoing security concerns and operational risks. The following airlines have delayed their return or suspended certain routes:
- Delta Air Lines: Flights canceled until August 31
- Aegean Airlines, Transavia, Air Canada: Flights canceled until September 7–8
- Wizz Air: Some routes canceled until September 15
- Air Baltic: Flights canceled until September 30
- Ryanair, Swiss, Iberia Express, British Airways, easyJet: Suspended until October 24–25
Travelers planning to use these airlines should check for updates and consider alternative carriers if immediate travel is necessary.
New Rules for Travelers: ETA-IL and Entry Requirements
One of the most important changes for travelers heading to Israel is the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) system. Starting January 1, 2025, all visitors from visa-exempt countries must obtain ETA-IL approval at least 72 hours before their trip. This electronic authorization is valid for up to two years and allows stays of up to 90 days per visit.
- Airlines are required to check ETA-IL approval before boarding passengers. Without this authorization, travelers will be denied boarding.
- The ETA-IL system is designed to improve security and streamline entry procedures, but it adds an extra step for travelers to complete before departure.
To apply for ETA-IL, travelers should visit the official Israeli government immigration website for the latest information and application forms. It’s important to apply well in advance to avoid last-minute problems at the airport.
Changes at Ben Gurion Airport: Security and Operations
In addition to the new entry requirements, Israel has updated its list of approved airports for international arrivals and overflights. For security reasons, several airports, including Washington Dulles (KIAD), have been removed from the list. This means some flights may need to adjust their routes or make additional stops, which could affect travel times and schedules.
Another challenge is the fuel embargo from Turkey. Since May 2025, Turkish airports have stopped supplying fuel to Israel-bound flights due to a trade embargo. As a result, airlines must plan alternative fuel stops at approved airports, which can add complexity and potential delays to flight operations.
Flight Compensation Law: What Travelers Need to Know
The Israeli government has also made changes to the Aviation Services Law, which affects compensation for canceled flights. During designated emergency periods, airlines are now only required to refund the ticket price for canceled flights. They are no longer obligated to provide additional compensation or alternative arrangements, and the advance notification period for cancellations has been shortened from 14 days to just 3 days.
These changes aim to help airlines manage the financial risks of operating in a volatile environment, but they also mean travelers have fewer protections if their flights are canceled during emergencies. It’s important for travelers to understand these rules and consider purchasing travel insurance or flexible tickets when planning trips to Israel.
Government and Industry Response: Working Together for Recovery
Minister of Transportation Miri Miriam Regev has played a key role in coordinating the reopening of Ben Gurion Airport and encouraging foreign airlines to return. The Israeli government and the Knesset have passed legal and regulatory changes to make it easier for airlines to resume service, including amendments to compensation laws and safety net provisions for North American routes.
Airlines have responded positively to these efforts, with many resuming or expanding their services. However, some carriers remain cautious, especially those with routes that pass through higher-risk areas or rely on airports affected by the new security rules.
Practical Tips for Travelers: What to Expect
With the rapid return of foreign airlines to Ben Gurion Airport, travelers now have access to a wide range of direct and connecting flights from North America, Europe, Asia, and the Gulf. Both full-service and low-cost options are available, making it easier for people to find flights that fit their needs and budgets.
However, travelers should be aware of the following:
- Entry Requirements: All travelers from visa-exempt countries must secure ETA-IL approval before departure. Airlines will deny boarding without this authorization.
- Flight Availability: While most major carriers have resumed service, some routes remain suspended or subject to sudden changes due to the evolving security situation. Always check with airlines and official sources before booking.
- Compensation Rights: During emergency periods, compensation for canceled flights is limited to ticket refunds. Alternative arrangements may be less comprehensive than in normal times.
- Potential Disruptions: The situation can change quickly. Travelers should stay informed, keep in touch with their airlines, and be prepared for possible delays or changes to their travel plans.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Ben Gurion Airport and Foreign Airlines
The outlook for Ben Gurion Airport and international travel to Israel is positive, but not without risks. With the security situation stabilizing, more airlines are expected to resume or increase flights in the coming months, especially as the peak travel season approaches.
The Israeli government may continue to adjust aviation policies and compensation frameworks in response to airline feedback and changing security needs. Both Israeli authorities and international carriers are closely monitoring the situation, and further changes to schedules, entry requirements, or operational procedures may occur if security conditions change.
Expert Perspectives: Resilience and Adaptation
Aviation analysts say Israel’s rapid restoration of international air connectivity shows the resilience of its aviation sector and the effectiveness of government-industry cooperation. The introduction of ETA-IL and changes to compensation laws have addressed many airline concerns, making it easier for foreign carriers to return.
However, the ongoing security situation remains a key factor. Airlines and travelers must remain flexible and ready to adapt to new developments. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the combination of strong government action, industry cooperation, and new security measures has helped Israel’s aviation sector bounce back faster than many expected.
Implications for Immigrants, Tourists, and the Business Community
The reopening of Ben Gurion Airport and the return of foreign airlines have wide-reaching effects:
- Immigrants and Families: Easier access to flights means families can reunite, and new immigrants can travel to Israel with fewer obstacles.
- Tourists: The increase in available flights and destinations makes it simpler for tourists to visit Israel, boosting the country’s tourism industry.
- Business Travelers: Improved connectivity supports business activities, trade, and investment, helping Israel’s economy recover from the recent crisis.
- Students and Academic Exchanges: More flight options make it easier for students and academics to participate in exchange programs and research collaborations.
Solution-Oriented Steps for Travelers
To make the most of the renewed flight options at Ben Gurion Airport, travelers should:
- Apply for ETA-IL early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Apply at least 72 hours before your flight using the official ETA-IL portal.
- Check airline schedules: Flight availability can change quickly. Always confirm your flight status with the airline before booking and before heading to the airport.
- Understand compensation rules: Know your rights under the new compensation laws, especially during emergency periods.
- Stay informed: Follow updates from the Israel Ministry of Transport and your airline for the latest travel advisories and security information.
- Consider travel insurance: Given the potential for sudden changes, travel insurance can provide extra protection and peace of mind.
Official Resources for Travelers
For the most up-to-date information on flights, entry requirements, and airport operations, travelers can use these resources:
- Ben Gurion Airport Flight Information: Full list of flights and schedules
- Israel Ministry of Transport – Aviation Security Operations Center (ASOC): For security-related questions
- ETA-IL Application Portal: Apply for travel authorization
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Israel’s Air Travel
The return of foreign airlines to Ben Gurion Airport, led by carriers like United Airlines, marks a new chapter for Israel’s international connectivity. While challenges remain, the combined efforts of the government, airlines, and travelers are helping to restore normalcy and open new opportunities for movement, business, and cultural exchange.
Travelers should remain alert to changing conditions, follow official guidance, and take proactive steps to ensure smooth journeys. With continued cooperation and flexibility, Ben Gurion Airport is well on its way to reclaiming its role as a major hub for travel between Israel and the world.
Learn Today
Ben Gurion Airport → Israel’s main international airport near Tel Aviv, central to aviation and travel in the region.
ETA-IL → Electronic Travel Authorization system requiring pre-approval for travelers from visa-exempt countries entering Israel.
Fuel Embargo → Ban by Turkey stopping fuel supplies to Israel-bound flights, complicating refueling and flight routes.
Aviation Services Law → Israeli law regulating airline compensation and passenger rights during flight cancellations and emergencies.
Ceasefire → Agreement in late June 2025 between Israel and Iran easing regional conflict, enabling travel restoration.
This Article in a Nutshell
Ben Gurion Airport’s reopening signals Israel’s aviation recovery, with 120+ new flights and major carriers like United Airlines returning. New ETA-IL rules require pre-travel authorization, altering entry procedures. Despite ongoing risks, cooperation between government and airlines supports expanded international connectivity and future growth opportunities in Israeli air travel.
— By VisaVerge.com
