Air India, India’s leading full-service airline, has temporarily halted all flights to and from Tel Aviv, Israel, until May 6, 2025, following a missile strike near Ben Gurion International Airport on May 4, 2025. The decision prioritizes the safety of passengers and crew amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, triggered by a ballistic missile attack from Yemen’s Houthi rebels. To ease the impact on travelers, Air India is offering full refunds or a one-time waiver for rescheduling for affected passengers. This article explores the reasons behind the suspension, the airline’s response, traveler options, and the broader context of regional disruptions, ensuring travelers are well-equipped to navigate this situation.
Why Air India Suspended Tel Aviv Flights
On May 4, 2025, a missile launched by Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck near Ben Gurion International Airport, injuring six people and prompting a temporary suspension of airport operations. Air India flight AI139, en route from Delhi to Tel Aviv, was diverted to Abu Dhabi while over Jordanian airspace, safely landing before returning to Delhi. The return flight from Tel Aviv was canceled, and all operations to and from the city were paused until May 6 to ensure safety.
The suspension reflects heightened regional instability, with the Houthi attack exacerbating ongoing Middle East tensions. Other airlines, including Lufthansa, British Airways (until May 7), and Delta Air Lines, have also halted Tel Aviv flights, citing security concerns. Israeli authorities confirmed the missile’s origin and are investigating, while Ben Gurion Airport has resumed limited operations. Air India’s proactive measure aligns with its commitment to passenger and crew safety, a priority echoed across the aviation industry.
Air India’s Response and Traveler Support
Air India has implemented a robust support plan for passengers affected by the suspension, covering travel between May 4 and May 6, 2025. The airline’s official statement on X emphasizes safety and outlines the following options:
- Full Refund: Passengers with valid tickets for flights to or from Tel Aviv during this period can cancel and receive a full refund, covering the base fare and applicable taxes. Refunds must be requested within two years from the ticket issuance date, per Air India’s policy.
- One-Time Rescheduling Waiver: Travelers can reschedule their flights without penalty for travel within the ticket’s validity period. For changes beyond May 22, 2025, fare differences may apply, but no change fees will be charged. Cabin class changes are not permitted.
- Ground Assistance: Air India’s staff at airports, including Abu Dhabi and Delhi, are assisting affected passengers with alternative arrangements, such as rebooking on other routes or coordinating with partner airlines.
Passengers are encouraged to monitor Air India’s website (airindia.com) or contact its 24/7 call center at 011-69329333 or 011-69329999 for updates and support. The airline is also leveraging its self-service re-accommodation tool, which sends updated itineraries via email for eligible bookings, though this is a one-time service.
Impact on Travelers and How to Navigate It
The suspension affects Air India’s regular Delhi-Tel Aviv route, which operates four weekly flights (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday). Travelers face disruptions, particularly those with time-sensitive plans, such as business trips or family visits. The financial impact is mitigated by Air India’s refund and waiver policies, but passengers should act quickly to secure alternatives. Here are practical steps to manage the situation:
- Check Your Booking: Log into airindia.com or the Air India app to review your flight status. Affected passengers will receive notifications via email or SMS.
- Request a Refund: If your travel plans are inflexible, apply for a full refund through the website’s refund portal or contact the call center. Ensure all ticket numbers are provided for swift processing.
- Reschedule Strategically: Use the waiver to rebook for a later date, ideally after May 6, when operations may resume. Check alternative routes, such as via Istanbul or Amman, with partner airlines in the Star Alliance network.
- Monitor Regional Updates: Stay informed about Middle East developments, as further escalations could extend suspensions. Sources like the Israeli Airports Authority or news outlets provide real-time updates.
- Plan for Delays: If traveling to nearby regions (e.g., Jordan, UAE), account for potential route changes due to airspace restrictions, such as Pakistan’s ban on Indian airlines, which may extend flight times.
Broader Context of Regional Disruptions
The missile strike is part of a volatile Middle East landscape, with tensions fueled by conflicts involving Israel, Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran-backed groups like the Houthis. Air India has previously suspended Tel Aviv flights during flare-ups, including from October 7, 2023, to March 3, 2024, and again in August 2024 amid Israel-Iran tensions. These recurring disruptions highlight the region’s instability, impacting aviation globally.
The UAE, where AI139 was diverted, remains a stable hub, with no reported disruptions to its airports. However, travelers to the Middle East should note that airlines like United Airlines and Air Europa have also paused Tel Aviv services, and regional airspace restrictions, such as Pakistan’s ban, are affecting flight paths to North America, Europe, and the UK. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has advised against travel to Israel and Iran, urging citizens in these countries to register with Indian embassies.
Future Outlook for Air India’s Tel Aviv Route
Air India’s suspension is temporary, set to end on May 6, 2025, but extensions are possible if tensions persist. The airline is closely monitoring the situation, with safety as the guiding factor. Ben Gurion Airport’s partial reopening suggests flights could resume soon, but travelers should prepare for uncertainty. Air India’s history of resuming services after brief pauses, as seen in March 2024, offers hope for a quick recovery.
The airline’s broader operations remain strong, with recent expansions like the Bengaluru-Heathrow route shift and a 7-star safety rating from AirlineRatings.com. Its focus on customer support during crises, as evidenced by the waiver policy, reinforces its reliability despite external challenges.
Tips for Affected Travelers
To minimize disruption, consider these tips:
- Act Promptly: Request refunds or reschedule immediately to secure preferred dates or alternative flights.
- Explore Alternatives: Check flights with El Al, Israir, or Arkia, which are operating normally, or routes via hubs like Dubai or Doha.
- Stay Connected: Follow Air India’s X account (@airindia) for real-time updates and join travel forums for peer advice.
- Review Insurance: If you have travel insurance, check coverage for cancellations due to geopolitical events to recover additional costs.
- Contact Support Early: Call centers may experience high volumes; use online tools first to avoid delays.
Conclusion
Air India’s suspension of Tel Aviv flights until May 6, 2025, reflects a cautious response to a missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport, prioritizing passenger and crew safety. With full refunds and rescheduling waivers, the airline is easing the burden on travelers, while ground teams provide hands-on support. By staying informed, acting swiftly, and exploring alternatives, passengers can navigate this disruption effectively. As the Middle East situation evolves, Air India’s commitment to safety and flexibility ensures travelers remain supported. Visit airindia.com or call 011-69329333 for assistance, and plan your next steps with confidence.
