EasyJet suspends flights to Tel Aviv over Iran-Israel conflict - after attack caused travel chaos above Middle East

EasyJet suspends Tel Aviv flights due to Iran-Israel conflict and airspace disruptions, causing travel chaos

The fallout from Iran's recent barrage of drones and missiles into Israel has reverberated across the aviation industry, prompting significant disruptions to flight routes traversing the Middle East.

 

Following the onslaught, which saw over 300 projectiles launched into Israeli territory, flight data revealed a wave of flights rerouted away from the affected airspace on Saturday. This sudden shift in routes led to the suspension of numerous journeys that would have traversed the region.

 

In response to escalating safety concerns, easyJet has taken decisive action, announcing the suspension of all flights to Tel Aviv for the remainder of the summer season. The budget carrier cited the "continued evolving situation" in the region as grounds for grounding flights until at least October 27. Passengers impacted by the suspension are being offered various options, including full refunds.

 

Meanwhile, Wizz Air temporarily cancelled flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday and Monday but has since resumed operations. British Airways, which maintains regular flights between Heathrow and Tel Aviv, affirmed that its services are continuing as scheduled, while closely monitoring developments.

 

The disruption stems from Iran's retaliatory strike in response to an attack on an Iranian consular building in Syria, attributed to Israel and resulting in casualties among Iranian military personnel. While the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) asserted no immediate overflight risks on Saturday, it acknowledged heightened potential for miscalculation and misidentification over Iranian airspace.

 

Simon Calder, a travel journalist, highlighted the widespread impact of the airspace closures, noting numerous flight diversions and logistical challenges faced by airlines. The closure forced airlines to reroute, refuel, and adapt to rapidly changing circumstances, contributing to operational complexities.

 

Despite the disruption, the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office have yet to issue updated travel guidance for the Middle East region. As the situation unfolds, airlines continue to navigate the delicate balance between ensuring passenger safety and minimizing disruptions to air travel in the volatile region.