Following the war that began in October 2023, Turkish Airlines (THY), Pegasus Airlines, and British carrier Virgin Atlantic, which had suspended flights to Israel, have now, after extensive evaluations, decided not to resume operations at Ben-Gurion Airport.
Heavy Flight Traffic Before the War
Prior to the conflict, Turkish Airlines operated 16 flights a day to Israel, and Istanbul Airport served as a major hub for Israeli passengers connecting to various destinations around the world.
Virgin Atlantic, meanwhile, had entered the Israeli market in September 2019, operating two daily flights on the Tel Aviv-London route.
In November, Virgin Atlantic had announced plans to resume flights in October 2025. However, following a “comprehensive review”, the airline has officially declared that it is cancelling its plans to return to Israel.
Flight Alternatives and Partnerships
Shirley Cohen-Arakbi, Deputy CEO of Eshet Tours, told Ynet: “This is not good news, but it is not considered a dramatic development either. The gap at Ben-Gurion Airport is being filled by Israeli and foreign carriers. No flight shortages are expected.”
The United Arab Emirates has notably become an important alternative hub for flights connecting to the Far East.
In a statement, Virgin Atlantic said: “Customers affected by the cancellation will be notified by email from 10 May 2025 onwards, and changes will be visible under the ‘My Bookings’ section of our website. We apologise for the inconvenience and are committed to providing the highest level of service during this transition period.”
Virgin Atlantic also stated that, thanks to their existing partnership with El Al Airlines, they will continue to offer services between Tel Aviv and London Heathrow. This cooperation will offer passengers flexible travel options and easy connections to destinations in the United States such as Las Vegas, Miami, New York, and Atlanta.
