Air India Suspends Tel Aviv Flights Till May 31 Amid Escalating West Asia Conflict

Air India has suspended flights between New Delhi and Tel Aviv till May 31 , citing safety concerns amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

An airline official confirmed that services on the route will remain halted, as several global carriers have also withdrawn operations to Tel Aviv. Currently, only Israeli airlines such as El Al, Israir and Arkia are operating limited flights under restrictions .

The move has raised concerns among over 40,000 Indians living in Israel, many of whom are looking to return home due to the worsening security situation . With direct connectivity disrupted, travellers are being forced to exit via land routes through neighbouring Jordan and Egypt.

The Embassy of India in Tel Aviv has stepped up assistance by operating a 24x7 emergency helpline and launching a registration drive for Indian nationals. Ambassador J P Singh and his team recently held a virtual interaction with Indian workers and students, assuring continued support during the crisis .

Direct flights between New Delhi and Tel Aviv had resumed on January 1 with four weekly services using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. However, operations were disrupted following the February 28 strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, and subsequent retaliation that widened the conflict across the region.

The ongoing tensions have also impacted global energy supply chains , particularly around the strategic Strait of Hormuz, adding to broader economic concerns.