American Airlines has announced the suspension of flights to Israel through late March, extending a break in service that began during the conflict in Gaza. Passengers holding tickets for flights to Tel Aviv have the option to rebook at no additional cost or cancel their trip for a full refund. Flights to Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv will remain suspended until March 29, as per the updated travel advisory on the airline's website.
The airline spokesperson mentioned that American Airlines will collaborate with partner airlines to assist customers traveling between Israel and European cities with connections to the U.S. Delta Air Lines has also extended its suspension of Tel Aviv flights until September 30, while United Airlines has suspended service indefinitely.
Following the Hamas attack on October 7, which marked the beginning of the conflict, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines ceased operations to Israel. Several other international airlines followed suit, although some later resumed flights. Lufthansa, based on a security analysis, announced the halt of all flights to Tel Aviv, Amman, Beirut, Tehran, and Erbil in Iraq until further notice.
The October 7 attack resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli casualties, predominantly civilians, and triggered Israel's military response in Gaza. The health ministry in Gaza, controlled by Hamas, reported around 40,000 deaths. Despite U.S. efforts to broker a cease-fire agreement, a resolution to the conflict remains elusive.
