On May 4, 2025, a ballistic missile launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck near Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, injuring eight individuals and causing significant damage. The missile evaded both Israeli and U.S. air defense systems, including the Arrow and THAAD systems, marking a rare breach of Israel’s defense capabilities.
In response to the attack, several international airlines have suspended flights to Israel, citing safety concerns:
- Air Canada: Suspended all flights to Israel until further notice.
- Lufthansa Group: Including Lufthansa, SWISS, Brussels Airlines, and Austrian Airlines, suspended services to Israel.
- United Airlines: Suspended flights between Newark and Tel Aviv.
- Delta Air Lines: Suspended flights between New York and Tel Aviv.
- Air France: Suspended flights to Tel Aviv.
- Air India: Suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv until further notice.
- All Nippon Airways (ANA): Suspended flights to Tel Aviv.
- British Airways: Suspended flights to Tel Aviv.
- Transavia: Suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv.
- Iberia Airlines: Suspended flights to Tel Aviv.
- Air Europa: Suspended flights to Tel Aviv.
- Ryanair: Suspended flights to Tel Aviv.
- Wizz Air: Suspended flights to Tel Aviv.
- ITA Airways: Suspended flights to Tel Aviv.
- Azerbaijan Airlines: Suspended flights to Tel Aviv.
- Virgin Atlantic: Suspended flights to Tel Aviv.
The attack has disrupted operations at Ben Gurion Airport, leading to temporary closures and rerouting of flights. While the airport has resumed normal operations, the incident has raised concerns about the security of Israeli airspace. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to retaliate against the Houthis and their Iranian backers.
Travelers planning to fly to or from Israel are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on flight status and potential cancellations.
