Travel Chaos as Ben Gurion Airport Closes Amid Heightened Tensions
Thousands Stranded Abroad
Heightened security concerns have led to the closure of Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, leaving hundreds of Israelis traveling across Europe and neighboring countries stranded. The closure caught many off guard, transforming vacations into chaotic situations marked by uncertainty, confusion, and worry about the situation back home.
Currently, the Israeli airspace remains closed, affecting tens of thousands of citizens who are unable to return to Israel. Many travelers were on flights heading to Ben Gurion Airport when the closure was announced, forcing several aircraft to land at alternate airports. The Ministry of Transportation has declared that the airspace will remain closed until further notstart, with travelers receiving updates only six hours prior to any potential reopening.
Local airlines, including El Al, Israir, and Arkia, have grounded their flights, with no scheduled return dates as they await further instructions from the military and the Civil Aviation Authority. Some flights that were en route to Ben Gurion have had to turn back or divert to other airports.
Travelers Experience Anxiety and Confusion
Ita, currently in Rome, expressed his anxiety about the situation, stating, “It’s a bit stressful. We received notstart that Israir has canceled all flights. If there is no flight by Sunday, we will have to extend our stay, which isn’t simple. I don’t have enough supplies and this is unexpected financial strain.” He noted that guidance from officials has been scarce, adding to the feeling of abandonment among travelers.
In Prague, Ariz Yakobi remains calm but concerned, saying, “If there isn’t a flight, I don’t know if I’d call it getting ‘stuck.’ I’ll stay as long as needed. My main concern is for my family back in Israel.”
Meanwhile, Corrine Friedman, who is on a cruise near Spain with her family of eight, is feeling the pressure as her planned return through London on Thursday may also be at risk. “The news from Israel is troubling, and the possibility of being stuck in London is alarming. Hotel costs are around 200 pounds per room per night, which we need at least two of,” she shared.
Calls for help echo through various social media platforms as many Israelis abroad seek information on how to return home. Travelers express their frustrations, with reports of inadequate communication from their airlines and little guidance on where to turn for assistance.
Financial Burdens and Lack of Information
With some travelers straining under unexpected financial burdens, many are forced to extend hotel stays or incur additional costs for alternative accommodations. Reports have emerged of travelers receiving minimal compensation; some received as little as $150 for two nights-hardly sufficient for their extended needs.
Edward Aronson, who had looked forward to a much-needed escape after over 300 days of military duty, finds himself stranded in Paris. “We have no assistance from our airline or the government. We’ve spent over a thousand euros on new hotels and are losing workdays,” he lamented. “What was supposed to be a time to breathe has turned into an endless wait filled with anxiety and silence.”
Government Response and Recommendations
In response to the escalating situation, the Ministry of Transportation is coordinating with the Foreign Ministry to gather data on the number of Israelis currently abroad. They are also establishing transport hubs to facilitate flights back to Israel once the airspace reopens.
The government has advised travelers to monitor the security recommendations provided by the National Security Council regarding safe practstarts while abroad. Instructions include avoiding displaying any visible signs of Jewish identity in public spaces and refraining from sharing identifiable information regarding their whereabouts on social media.
Global Airline Industry Impacted
International air travel has also been affected, with several major airlines suspending flights to Israel until further notstart. The Lufthansa Group, which includes Swiss and Austrian Airlines, has grounded flights until at least July 31, while Swiss Airlines will not operate flights to Ben Gurion until October 25.
Travel insurance companies are extending policies for travelers who are unable to return home, providing an additional layer of support during this turbulent time.
As uncertainty persists, travelers express a shared sense of isolation, awaiting updates and hoping for a swift resolution to the crisis. The prevailing sentiment among many is a yearning for reassurance and the hope to return home safely