Israeli Skies Closed: No Departures or Arrivals – Official Announcement from the Ministry of Transport and Airport Authority
Due to the security situation and directives from the defense system, the State of Israel has closed its airspace to civilian aviation until further notice. In a joint statement issued this morning by the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was announced that there are currently no outgoing or incoming flights to Israel, and all civilian aviation activities have been completely halted.
Upon receiving renewed approval from the defense system, the Ministry of Transport will update on the reopening of the skies, in coordination with the airlines. The public is requested to follow official announcements that will be published as needed in the media and on designated websites.
Airport Authority Clarifies: Do Not Travel to Larnaca or Athens
In an unusual statement issued by the Airport Authority, it was stated that “there is no recommendation for Israelis abroad to travel at this stage to Larnaca or Athens with the intention of boarding a flight back to the country.”
The authorities explain that even after flights are permitted to resume, it will be done gradually and at a slow pace, with significant safety restrictions. Therefore, it is likely that there will be a wait of days before actual flights can take place. Any attempt to bypass the restrictions may lead to prolonged delays and unnecessary frustration.
“Act Responsibly and Wait for Updates”
Transportation and security officials emphasize the need to act responsibly, avoid independently reaching interim destinations, and rely solely on official information that will be published later. The situation on the ground is rapidly changing, and any change in the aviation framework will be updated as soon as possible.
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Official Announcements:
Joint Statement from the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
Due to the security situation and according to the instructions of the security authorities, the skies of the State of Israel are closed to civilian aviation; no flights are departing or arriving.
Once security authorities grant approval – with the reopening of the skies, the Ministry of Transport will update on the resumption of flights, in coordination with various airlines, as well as additional details.
Information for the public on the resumption of airline flights will be published, in due course, through all media outlets and various websites.
Please follow and prepare accordingly.
Important Clarification from the Airports Authority
Following the security situation and according to the instructions of the security system, the skies to and from Israel are currently closed.
There is no recommendation for Israelis abroad to currently travel to Larnaca or Athens, thinking they can board a flight back to the country from there.
Even when the security system allows the resumption of flights, the flight pace will be limited to minimize risks and ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft. Therefore, passengers are expected to wait days before an actual return flight is possible.
We ask all those abroad to act responsibly, wait for official updates, and clarify that there is no recommendation to independently reach interim points that do not guarantee a faster return.
Spokesperson for the Airports Authority
In coordination with the security system, Israel’s airspace is closed. Ben Gurion Airport remains closed to landings and takeoffs. Notification of its opening will be given with a 6-hour advance notice, emphasizing passenger and crew safety.
According to the instructions of the Minister of Transport and Road Safety, and a structured plan prepared by the Ministry of Transport and professional bodies, the Airports Authority is working with Israeli airlines to bring Israelis back home. All air crews and aircraft are ready to act as soon as possible. However, this may take a long time, depending on the security situation. A decision on the return of flights to Israel will only be made when it can be done safely.
Meanwhile, the land border crossings to Jordan and Sinai are open for activity. Here are the operating hours:
Taba Crossing to Sinai: Open 24/7.
Rabin Crossing to Jordan: 06:30-20:00. Arrive at the terminal by 19:30. Those crossing with a vehicle should arrive by 19:00.
Jordan River Crossing: 08:30-18:00. Arrive at the terminal by 16:30.
Allenby Crossing, for foreigners and Palestinians only: 08:00-17:00
The Airports Authority strengthens security forces and will continue to operate in coordination with all relevant parties to resume aviation activity in Israel with maximum safety.
