Following the recent ceasefire in Gaza, several international airlines are making a cautious return to Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, offering a much-needed boost to the country’s tourism sector. Air France led the way by resuming its Tel Aviv–Paris route on January 25, marking the first major international carrier to reinstate flights. United Airlines has scheduled its return for March, while Delta plans to follow in April. Other key players, including British Airways, Lufthansa, and ITA Airways, have also confirmed their comeback, and Turkish Airlines has signaled its intention to resume flights soon.

Despite this positive momentum, the full-scale recovery of air travel to Israel remains dependent on the fragile ceasefire holding firm. Airlines are closely monitoring the geopolitical landscape, prepared to adjust operations if tensions resurface. The aviation sector’s confidence in the region is still being tested, and any escalation in hostilities could once again disrupt flight schedules.

Meanwhile, Israel may soon welcome a new domestic airline aimed at expanding its regional connectivity. Kavei Hufsha, a leading Israeli tourism company, has revealed plans to launch a new carrier focused on short-haul flights within a four-to-five-hour radius of Israel. The company, which already owns Blue Bird in Greece and TUS Airways in Cyprus, intends to enhance accessibility across the region. However, regulatory approvals from Israel’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) are expected to take at least six months, and the airline is unlikely to commence operations before 2026.

For travelers, the return of direct flights is expected to gradually reduce airfare costs, though prices remain elevated due to lingering capacity constraints. As more airlines resume operations, increased competition should drive ticket prices down, making travel to and from Israel more affordable. However, uncertainty looms, as any deterioration in security conditions could once again restrict airline services and limit international tourism.

While the road to recovery remains uncertain, Israel’s tourism industry is pressing forward with resilience. Government officials and tourism leaders are working diligently to reassure travelers and rebuild confidence in the country’s safety measures. With strategic efforts underway to strengthen air connectivity and enhance travel experiences, Israel remains determined to regain its position as a prominent travel destination in the Middle East.

The post Air France, United, Delta, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines Restart Flights to Israel as Tourism Rebuilds, and a New Israeli Airline Prepares for Takeoff appeared first on Travel And Tour World.