American Airlines suspends flights to Israel until April 2025

American Airlines has extended its suspension of flights to and from Israel until April 2025, citing regional instability. This decision, reported by Israeli public broadcaster KAN on Sunday, comes amid escalating tensions due to Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza and recent high-profile assassinations in the region.

Which airlines suspended flights to Israel?

The suspension by American Airlines is part of a broader move by international airlines in response to the heightened security risks.

• Major carriers, including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, EasyJet, Ryanair, Lufthansa Group, Aegean Airlines, airBaltic, Air India, Air France-KLM, Cathay Pacific, Tarom, Vueling, and ITA Airways, have all suspended flights to Israel or rerouted to avoid affected airspace.
• As of Aug. 7, 20 foreign airlines have suspended their operations to and from Israel.

Why vast majority of airlines suspended their flights

• Gaza war: The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to the deaths of nearly 40,100 people and injuries to 92,600 others since Oct. 7. Hezbollah and the Israeli military have increased cross-border exchanges of fire since the Gaza war began, affecting flights and shipping across the region.
• High-profile assassinations: The situation has further escalated following the assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31 and Hezbollah’s senior commander Fouad Shukr in Beirut on July 30.
• Retaliatory attacks: Both Iran and Hezbollah have accused Israel of the assassinations, though Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement. In response, Israel has heightened its military alert, anticipating possible retaliatory attacks from Iran and Hezbollah.

Israeli airlines makes profit amid worldwide suspensions

While most foreign airlines have suspended their flights, El Al Israel Airlines continues to operate, benefiting from its near-monopoly status. The airline has reported a nearly 150% increase in profits, attributed to the lack of competition as foreign carriers pull out.

However, El Al has faced criticism from customers, both domestically and internationally, who accuse the airline of price-gouging during the ongoing crisis.