Israel’s second-largest airline is shifting operations to Jordan and Egypt as restrictions tighten at Ben Gurion Airport following escalating tensions with Iran. The move, reported on Monday by Walla and Middle East Eye, signals a significant disruption to air travel in and out of Israel.
Arkia’s CEO cited a limitation of 50 passengers per flight as the primary reason for the change, stating that the restriction “effectively means closing the sky over Israel.”
Beginning Tuesday, Arkia flights will depart from smaller airports in Aqaba, Jordan, and Taba, Egypt, and the airline anticipates this arrangement will continue for the foreseeable future. The development underscores the impact of the ongoing conflict on civilian infrastructure and travel.
Minimal operations will continue at Ben Gurion Airport, including flights to Larnaca, Cyprus, and Athens, Greece, “mainly for humanitarian needs,” according to Walla. These flights are intended to facilitate the return of thousands of Israeli citizens currently unable to travel back to Israel.
During the 12-day conflict with Iran last year, Arkia implemented a specialized flight schedule to repatriate many of those citizens.
“Arkia will continue to operate responsibly although maintaining the safety of its passengers and providing alternative and creative aviation solutions as much as possible,” said Arkia CEO Oz Berlovitz in a statement.
“Under the current framework, regular aviation activity cannot be maintained” in Israel, he added.
Arkia is honoring all tickets already booked by passengers.
Last month, The Jerusalem Post reported that a U.S. Investor and owner of a cannabis pharmaceutical company was exploring the possibility of acquiring Arkia from its Israeli owners.
The company is valued at approximately $50 million, and the acquisition would require the inclusion of an Israeli partner due to the country’s restrictions on foreign ownership.
