Lufthansa to Resume Flights to Israel Starting August 1, 2025

Key Takeaways

• Lufthansa resumes Israel flights on August 1, 2025, starting with Frankfurt, Munich, and Vienna routes.
• Swiss and Eurowings delay return until October 25, 2025, monitoring ongoing security risks.
• Ben Gurion Airport plans €3 billion expansion to handle more future flights and passengers.

Lufthansa Set to Resume Israel Flights: What Travelers Need to Know About Ben Gurion Airport and Airline Service in 2025

Lufthansa Group, one of Europe’s largest airline families, has announced it will resume flights to and from Israel 🇮🇱 on August 1, 2025. This decision comes after a nearly three-month suspension following a Houthi missile incident near Ben Gurion Airport on May 4, 2025. The move is a major step for both travelers and the aviation industry, signaling a cautious return to normal for international flights to Israel’s main gateway.

This article explains what’s happening, why it matters, and what travelers, businesses, and the broader community can expect as airlines return to Ben Gurion Airport. We’ll also look at the current list of airlines flying to Israel, the background behind these changes, and practical advice for anyone planning to travel in or out of the country.

Why Did Lufthansa Suspend Israel Flights?

Lufthansa, along with its group airlines—Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings—suspended all flights to Israel 🇮🇱 after a missile landed near Ben Gurion Airport on May 4, 2025. This was not the first time flights were halted. Since June 2024, the region has seen repeated disruptions due to conflicts involving Iran, missile attacks by the Houthi group, and temporary airspace closures. Each time, airlines have had to weigh the safety of passengers and crew against the need to keep travel and trade moving.

What’s Changing on August 1, 2025?

Starting August 1, 2025, Lufthansa Group will gradually restart flights between Tel Aviv and major European cities. The first routes will connect Tel Aviv with:

• Frankfurt
• Munich
• Dusseldorf
• Hamburg
• Zurich
• Vienna
• Brussels

However, not all group airlines will return at once. Swiss and Eurowings will delay their return until October 25, 2025, at the end of the summer schedule. This slow, step-by-step approach allows Lufthansa to monitor the security situation and adjust quickly if needed.

How Safe Is It to Fly to Israel Now?

Lufthansa’s decision to resume flights is based on ongoing security reviews. The airline has made it clear that safety comes first. They will continue to watch the situation closely and may change plans if new risks appear. This means travelers should be ready for possible last-minute changes, including delays or new suspensions if the region becomes unstable again.

Which Airlines Are Flying to Ben Gurion Airport?

As of July 8, 2025, several airlines have resumed flights to Ben Gurion Airport, while others remain suspended. Here’s a breakdown:

Airlines Currently Operating:

• El Al: Israel’s national airline has kept regular service running through most of the conflict.
• Air France: Resumed daily flights in July 2025, using large Boeing 777-300 planes with all cabin classes.
• Flydubai, Etihad Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Blue Bird Airways, Hainan Airlines, TUS Airways, Azerbaijan Airlines: All have restored routes to Tel Aviv.
• Air Europa and LOT Polish Airlines: Both are scheduled to restart flights on July 14, 2025.
• Air Seychelles: Plans to resume service on August 1, 2025.

Airlines Scheduled to Resume or Still Suspended:

• Lufthansa Group: Scheduled to resume August 1, 2025, but Swiss and Eurowings will wait until October 25, 2025.
• British Airways, Ryanair, easyJet: Suspended until October 25, 2025, but may return sooner if safety advisories are lifted.
• KLM: Has an indefinite suspension with no set return date.

This means that while options are increasing, travelers may still find fewer flights and higher prices than before the conflict.

Why Are Some Airlines Still Suspended?

Many European airlines are waiting for the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to lift its travel advisory for Israel 🇮🇱. This advisory warns airlines about possible risks in the region. Once EASA changes its guidance, more carriers may quickly restart flights. Until then, airlines like British Airways, Ryanair, and easyJet are holding off, even though demand for travel is strong.

How Will Lufthansa’s Return Affect Travelers?

For people traveling between Israel 🇮🇱 and Europe, Lufthansa’s return is a big deal. Here’s why:

• Direct Flights Restored: Travelers from Frankfurt, Vienna, and Zurich will again have direct access to Tel Aviv, making trips faster and easier.
• Gradual Increase in Flights: At first, there will be fewer flights than before. As the situation improves, Lufthansa may add more flights and destinations.
• Higher Costs and Longer Flights: Due to ongoing risks, airlines face higher insurance costs and may need to take longer routes to avoid dangerous airspace. This can make flights 15–20% longer and more expensive.
• Uncertainty Remains: Airlines are ready to change plans quickly if new threats appear. Passengers should always check their flight status before heading to the airport.

What Should Travelers Do Before Flying?

If you’re planning to fly to or from Israel 🇮🇱, keep these tips in mind:

• Check Flight Status: Always look up your flight on the airline’s official website before leaving home.
• Update Contact Details: Make sure your phone number and email are correct in your booking so you get real-time updates.
• Book Through Official Channels: For Lufthansa, use only lufthansa.com to avoid scams.
• Know Your Rights: If your flight is canceled, Lufthansa will usually rebook you for free and send you a notification. You can also find information about passenger rights and compensation on airline websites or through national aviation authorities.
• Stay Flexible: Be ready for changes, including possible delays or last-minute cancellations.

How Does This Affect Business and Tourism?

The return of Lufthansa and other airlines is expected to boost both business and tourism in Israel 🇮🇱. According to Israel’s tourism ministry, the country expects 5 million visitors in 2025, up from 3.2 million in 2024. Much of this growth comes from business travelers, especially in the tech and pharmaceutical industries, who rely on strong connections with Europe.

Ben Gurion Airport is also planning a major expansion, with a €3 billion investment by 2030. This will help the airport handle more flights and passengers, making it even more attractive for international airlines.

What Are the Risks for Airlines and Passengers?

Even as flights resume, risks remain. Airlines are paying more for insurance and may need to reroute flights to avoid dangerous areas. This means:

• Longer Flight Times: Some flights may take up to 20% longer than before.
• Higher Ticket Prices: Extra costs for airlines often lead to higher prices for passengers.
• Possible Sudden Changes: If the security situation gets worse, airlines may suspend flights again with little notice.

What’s the Outlook for Other Airlines?

The next few weeks are important. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is expected to review its travel advisory soon. If the advisory is lifted, more European airlines may quickly return to Israel 🇮🇱. However, any new conflict or missile attack could lead to fresh suspensions.

Summary Table: Lufthansa Group Israel Flight Resumption Timeline (2024–2025)

What Does This Mean for Immigration and International Mobility?

For people with family, work, or study ties to Israel 🇮🇱, the return of Lufthansa and other airlines is a welcome relief. It means:

• Easier Family Reunification: Families separated by the conflict can visit each other more easily.
• Business and Study Opportunities: Professionals and students can travel for work or school without long detours or expensive tickets.
• Improved Consular Access: Foreign nationals needing to visit embassies or consulates in Israel 🇮🇱 will have more travel options.

However, travelers should remember that the situation can change quickly. It’s important to stay informed and flexible.

Expert Perspectives on Lufthansa’s Approach

Aviation experts say Lufthansa’s careful, step-by-step return is a good example for other airlines. By starting with a few flights and watching the situation closely, Lufthansa can protect passengers and staff while helping restore vital connections. As reported by VisaVerge.com, this cautious approach balances the need for safety with the demand for travel and trade.

What Should Airlines and Travelers Watch for Next?

• EASA Advisory: If the European Aviation Safety Agency lifts its warning, more airlines may return quickly.
• Security Updates: Airlines will keep adjusting schedules based on real-time security reports.
• Airport Expansion: Ben Gurion Airport’s planned upgrades may attract even more airlines in the future.

Practical Steps for Travelers

If you’re planning a trip to or from Israel 🇮🇱, here’s what you should do:

1. Check Airline Websites: Visit your airline’s official site for the latest updates. For Lufthansa, use lufthansa.com.
2. Monitor Government Advisories: Check your country’s travel advice for Israel 🇮🇱. The Israel Airports Authority also provides updates on airport operations.
3. Stay Flexible: Be ready to change your plans if needed. Keep extra time in your schedule for possible delays.
4. Understand Your Rights: If your flight is canceled or changed, you may be entitled to a refund or free rebooking. Check the airline’s policy and national aviation rules.
5. Keep Documents Handy: Make sure your passport, visa, and any other travel documents are up to date.

Official Resources for Travelers

• Lufthansa Group: lufthansa.com
• Ben Gurion Airport: Israel Airports Authority
• Israel Ministry of Tourism: israel.travel
• European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA): easa.europa.eu

Conclusion: What to Expect in the Coming Months

The return of Lufthansa and other airlines to Ben Gurion Airport is a hopeful sign for travelers, businesses, and the Israeli economy. While risks remain, the gradual reopening of air routes shows that airlines are finding ways to manage safety and keep people connected.

Travelers should stay alert, check official updates, and be ready for changes. As more airlines return and Ben Gurion Airport expands, flying to and from Israel 🇮🇱 should become easier and more reliable. For now, patience and flexibility are key as the region continues to recover and rebuild its international connections.

Key Takeaways:

• Lufthansa resumes Israel flights August 1, 2025, starting with major European hubs.
• Other airlines are returning, but some major European carriers remain suspended.
• Travelers should check flight status and stay flexible due to ongoing risks.
• Ben Gurion Airport is expanding, promising more options in the future.
• Stay informed using official airline and government resources for the latest updates.

By following these steps and staying informed, travelers can make the most of the renewed connections between Israel 🇮🇱 and the rest of the world.

Learn Today

Lufthansa Group → Europe’s large airline family including Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings.
Ben Gurion Airport → Israel’s main international airport located near Tel Aviv, serving as the primary gateway for travelers.
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) → EU agency issuing safety advisories affecting airline operations and travel to risky regions.
Flight Suspension → Temporary halt of flights due to safety concerns or geopolitical instability, like missile threats.
Travel Advisory → Official guidance warning travelers and airlines about potential risks in a destination or airspace.

This Article in a Nutshell

Lufthansa will restart flights to Israel on August 1, 2025, after suspensions due to missile attacks. Travelers should expect gradual flight returns, higher costs, and remain flexible due to ongoing security concerns. Ben Gurion Airport’s expansion promises future growth in connectivity and tourism, signaling cautious optimism for international travel.
— By VisaVerge.com