TL;DR: Which Airlines Are Flying to Israel in October 2026?
Israeli carriers El Al, Arkia, Israir, and Air Haifa are flying to Israel on full schedules, and Israir launches new New York service on October 19. Direct US service on American carriers is back, with Delta flying New York (JFK)–Tel Aviv since September 6 and United flying Newark–Tel Aviv since September 8. Most European carriers are operating, including Lufthansa, SWISS, ITA Airways, Austrian, Eurowings, Air France, Wizz Air, and Aegean, along with Etihad, Ethiopian, Hainan, Bluebird, TUS Airways, Air Europa, and Air India. Brussels Airlines returns after October 24, British Airways and TAP Air Portugal return October 25, and SAS returns October 26. FlyDubai is suspended until further notice following the September 30 incident on flight FZ1073. The main airlines still not flying are Air Canada (until around January 2027) and American Airlines (until late March 2027).
If you’re looking for airlines flying to Israel right now, Ben Gurion Airport is open and running normally. October 2026 is the strongest month for flight options since the war with Iran began in February. Delta and United are back on US–Israel routes, most major European carriers have returned, and British Airways is scheduled to come back on October 25.
There is one new disruption to know about. FlyDubai has suspended all flights to Israel following a suspected terror attack on one of its Dubai–Tel Aviv flights on September 30. More on that below.
Why Staying Updated on Airlines Flying to Israel is Important
Airline schedules to Israel have changed constantly throughout 2026, and return dates have been pushed back more than once. Checking the current status before you book helps you avoid last-minute cancellations and choose the most reliable route.
Is Ben Gurion Airport Open in October 2026?
Is Ben Gurion Airport Open in October 2026?
Yes. Ben Gurion Airport has been fully open since April 9, 2026, following the ceasefire between the US, Israel, and Iran. All terminals, duty-free shops, and passenger services are operating normally.
Israeli airlines (El Al, Arkia, Israir, and Air Haifa) are flying full schedules. Most European carriers have returned, and Delta and United resumed US–Israel service in September. The main airlines still missing are British Airways (returning October 25), Air Canada, and American Airlines.
What Happened With FlyDubai?
On September 30, 2026, FlyDubai flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv was diverted to Saudi Arabia after the co-pilot allegedly attacked the captain in the cockpit and tried to take control of the aircraft. A relief crew and passengers helped regain control, and the plane landed safely.
Israel suspended FlyDubai flights to Ben Gurion for six days, and FlyDubai then announced it was suspending all Israel flights until further notice. The investigation is ongoing. If you are booked on FlyDubai to or from Israel, check flydubai.com and contact the airline directly about rebooking or a refund.
Which Airlines Are Currently Flying to Israel in October 2026?
Israeli carriers (full schedules)
- El Al: 40+ destinations including New York (JFK), Newark, Miami, Los Angeles, Boston, London, Paris, Amsterdam, Rome, Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Athens
- Arkia: New York, London, Amsterdam, Paris, Rome, Vienna, Athens, Larnaca, Bangkok, Hanoi, and more
- Israir: European and regional routes, plus new New York service launching October 19
- Air Haifa: regional routes
US carriers
- Delta Air Lines: daily New York (JFK)–Tel Aviv, resumed September 6
- United Airlines: two daily Newark–Tel Aviv flights, resumed September 8, with Chicago and Washington Dulles returning later this year
European carriers
- Lufthansa: Frankfurt and Munich to Tel Aviv
- SWISS: Zurich–Tel Aviv
- Austrian Airlines: Vienna–Tel Aviv, around 14 flights per week
- Eurowings: Hamburg and Düsseldorf to Tel Aviv
- Air France: Paris–Tel Aviv
- Wizz Air: multiple European routes
- Aegean Airlines: Athens–Tel Aviv
- Bluebird Airways: Athens–Tel Aviv
- TUS Airways: Larnaca and other routes
- Air Europa: Madrid–Tel Aviv
- Smartwings: Prague–Tel Aviv
Other international carriers
- Etihad Airways: Abu Dhabi–Tel Aviv
- Ethiopian Airlines: Addis Ababa–Tel Aviv
- Hainan Airlines: Beijing–Tel Aviv
- Air India: Delhi–Tel Aviv
- Georgian Airways and Uzbekistan Airways: regional routes
Returning later in October
- Brussels Airlines: suspension ends October 24
- British Airways: London–Tel Aviv returns October 25, initially with one daily flight
- TAP Air Portugal: returns October 25
- SAS: Copenhagen–Tel Aviv returns October 26
Airlines Still Suspended in October 2026
- FlyDubai: suspended until further notice following the September 30 incident
- Air Canada: suspended, with a return expected around January 2027
- American Airlines: not expected back before late March 2027
- Iberia: check iberia.com, as its return date has shifted several times
- Ryanair: no confirmed return date
- EasyJet: no confirmed return date
Direct Flights to Israel From North America
By the end of October, five airlines will fly direct between the US and Israel: El Al, Arkia, Israir, Delta, and United.
- New York (JFK): El Al, Delta, Arkia, Israir (from October 19)
- Newark: El Al, United
- Miami: El Al
- Los Angeles: El Al
- Boston: El Al
- Chicago and Washington Dulles: United, returning later this year
There are currently no direct flights from Canada. Travelers from Canada can connect through New York or a European hub.
Connecting Through Europe
For travelers who can’t fly direct, nearly every major European hub is now a workable connection to Ben Gurion:
- Frankfurt and Munich: Lufthansa and El Al
- Zurich: SWISS and El Al
- Vienna: Austrian Airlines, El Al, and Arkia
- Paris: Air France, El Al, and Arkia
- Athens: Aegean, Bluebird, El Al, Arkia, and Israir
- Rome: El Al, Israir, and Arkia
- Amsterdam: El Al and Arkia
- London: El Al, Arkia, Israir, and Wizz Air, with British Airways returning October 25
Gulf connections are more limited right now. Etihad via Abu Dhabi is operating, but FlyDubai via Dubai is not.
Tips for Booking Flights to Israel in October 2026
When booking flights to Israel, there are several strategies that can help you find the best deals and ensure a smooth journey:
- Book Directly with Airlines: While third-party booking sites and travel agencies can sometimes offer discounts, booking directly with airlines is often more reliable, especially when dealing with potential changes or cancellations. Direct bookings allow for easier management of your travel plans and access to better customer service.
- Stay Flexible with Dates and Times: Flexibility is key when looking for the best fares. Flights in the middle of the week are often less expensive than weekend flights, and early morning or late-night departures can also come with savings. Additionally, being flexible with your travel dates can open up more flight options, especially if certain airlines flying to Israel have limited schedules.
- Consider Stopovers for Cheaper Options: Direct flights are convenient, but they can also be more expensive. Consider flights with stopovers, which are often cheaper and provide the added bonus of exploring another city along the way. Airlines like Turkish Airlines, with connections through Istanbul, and Emirates, through Dubai, offer seamless stopover options with competitive pricing.
- Check for Additional Perks: Some airlines offer perks like extra baggage allowances, free seat selection, or even access to airport lounges. These perks can enhance your travel experience, making the journey to Israel more comfortable and stress-free.
- Monitor Travel Alerts and Updates: Keep an eye on travel advisories and updates from your chosen airline. Changes in security protocols or airline operations can affect your travel plans, so staying informed will help you navigate any potential disruptions.
- Consider Using Travel Insurance: Travel insurance with coverage for trip cancellations or delays due to geopolitical situations is highly recommended. Check with insurance providers for policies that specifically cover travel disruptions related to conflict zones.
- Consult with Travel Agencies Specializing in Israel: Travel agencies familiar with the current situation can provide valuable insights into the best routes, airlines, and accommodations available in Israel.
What to Expect When Flying to Israel
Traveling to Israel can be a unique experience, especially when considering the high standards of security and the distinct service culture of Israeli airlines. Here are some key things to expect:
- Enhanced Security Checks: Israel is known for its thorough security measures, which are among the strictest in the world. Passengers should arrive at the airport early to allow time for security screenings. While these checks may seem rigorous, they are designed to ensure the safety of all passengers and should be seen as a positive aspect of flying to Israel.
- In-Flight Experience: Airlines flying to Israel, such as El Al, Arkia, and Israir, offer a blend of Israeli hospitality and modern amenities. Expect kosher meal options, multilingual staff (including Hebrew and English), and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects Israel’s diverse culture.
- Arrival in Israel: Ben Gurion Airport, located near Tel Aviv, is one of the most efficient airports in the region. Upon arrival, travelers will find streamlined immigration processes, ample transportation options, and a range of services designed to make the transition from flight to destination as smooth as possible.
Future Trends in Airlines Flying to Israel
Industry experts predict that as conditions stabilize, additional airlines will gradually resume service. Over the course of 2026, we expect further normalization of flight frequencies, particularly from North America and Europe. Carriers like Delta, British Airways, and EasyJet are anticipated to return fully once the security situation is deemed stable, restoring pre-conflict connectivity.
For instance, partnerships between El Al and American carriers could mean more streamlined connections from North America, enhancing the travel experience for those flying long distances. The future of air travel to Israel looks promising, with more options and competitive pricing likely on the horizon.
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FAQs About Airlines Flying to Israel in October 2026
Which airlines are flying to Israel right now in October 2026?
Ben Gurion Airport has been fully open since April 9, 2026. El Al, Arkia, Israir, and Air Haifa are on full schedules. Delta and United resumed in September. Most European airlines are operating, including Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian, Eurowings, Air France, Wizz Air, and Aegean. British Airways returns October 25. FlyDubai is currently suspended.
Are there direct flights from the United States to Israel in October 2026?
Yes. El Al is operating direct flights from New York, Newark, Miami, Los Angeles, and is adding Boston from April 19. Arkia is also operating New York–Tel Aviv flights throughout April. United Airlines and Air Canada remain suspended until September 7.
My El Al flight was canceled — what do I do?
Nothing immediately. El Al is automatically reassigning all affected customers to repatriation flights based on original travel date, at no additional cost. You will be contacted directly by the airline. Do not call El Al’s customer service line for flight assignments — check elal.com for updates.
When will international airlines resume flights to Israel?
No confirmed timelines have been issued. International airlines are expected to resume service once Israeli airspace is fully reopened and safety assessments allow. Monitor individual airline websites for announcements. Based on previous disruptions, restoration of full international service typically follows within two to four weeks of a phased reopening.
What connecting cities are best for reaching Israel?
Athens, Rome, Paris, London, Munich, Zurich, Amsterdam, and Larnaca are the primary European hubs for connecting flights to Israel. Athens and Rome are the most active right now given their role in the current repatriation operation.
Is FlyDubai flying to Israel?
No. FlyDubai suspended all Israel flights until further notice after the September 30 incident on flight FZ1073. Check flydubai.com for updates.
Is it safe to fly to Israel right now?
The Civil Aviation Authority and Home Front Command are managing flight operations with real-time security coordination. Civilian aircraft communications are integrated with military control during approach and departure. Travelers should follow all instructions from airline and airport staff and monitor Home Front Command alerts. Download the Home Front Command Red Alert app before and during your trip.
