Air India Suspends All Tel Aviv Flights Until August 8

In response to the rising tensions between Israel and Hamas, Air India has announced the cancellation of its flights between New Delhi and Tel Aviv until August 8, 2024.

The decision comes as part of the airline’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its passengers and crew amid the ongoing conflict.

Affected Flights and Passenger Support

Air India typically operates four flights per week on this route. The cancellations specifically affect flights AI139 from Delhi to Tel Aviv and AI140 from Tel Aviv to Delhi scheduled for August 1.

The airline has stated that passengers with confirmed bookings on these flights will be eligible for a one-time waiver on rescheduling and cancellation fees.

“Passengers having confirmed bookings for travel on these two flights will be provided with a one-time waiver on rescheduling and cancellation charges. The inconvenience caused is sincerely regretted,” Air India mentioned in an update on its website.

Official Announcement

In a public statement, Air India highlighted the temporary suspension:

“In view of the ongoing situation in parts of the Middle East, we have suspended scheduled operations of our flights to and from Tel Aviv with immediate effect up to and including August 8, 2024. We are continuously monitoring the situation and are extending support to our passengers with confirmed bookings for travel to and from Tel Aviv during this period, with a one-time waiver on rescheduling and cancellation charges. Safety of our guests and crew remains our foremost priority.”

For additional information or assistance, passengers are encouraged to contact Air India’s 24/7 Contact Centre at 011-69329333 or 011-69329999.

Global Impact on Air Travel

Air India’s decision follows a similar move by Italy’s ITA Airways, which has suspended its flights to and from Tel Aviv until August 6. The airline cited geopolitical developments in the Middle East and the necessity of ensuring the safety of its passengers and crew as reasons for the suspension.

This wave of flight cancellations and suspensions comes as the region braces for potential retaliatory actions following a strike in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights that resulted in the tragic deaths of 12 children and teenagers. Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group, has denied responsibility for the attack.

Conclusion

As the situation in the Middle East remains volatile, airlines are taking precautionary measures to prioritize safety. Passengers affected by these disruptions are advised to stay informed through official airline communications and make use of the support services provided.

For the latest updates and travel advisories, travellers should regularly check airline websites and contact customer service centres.