Ryanair Withdraws from Israeli Market for Winter 2025: Cancellation of 22 Routes and One Million Seats
The Irish low-cost airline Ryanair announced today (Tuesday, September 30) that it will not resume flights to and from Israel at least until the end of the upcoming winter season. This decision entails the cancellation of approximately 22 international routes planned from Israel and the loss of about one million seats to popular European destinations.
Background to the Decision: Dispute with Ben Gurion Airport Management
Ryanair cites disagreements with the management of Ben Gurion Airport as the main reason for suspending operations. According to the airline, Ben Gurion Airport refuses to approve its fixed flight schedules for the summer 2026 season (S26) despite the schedules being available for sale. Additionally, there is no commitment from the Israel Airports Authority to keep Terminal 1 open during periods of security tension, casting doubt on the economic viability of low-cost flights.
“We Have No Intention to Fly at a Loss”
Ryanair claims that during the past summer, its operations were disrupted several times due to unilateral decisions by Ben Gurion Airport to close Terminal 1 and transfer the airline’s flights to Terminal 3, which involves significantly higher operational costs. “We will not return to fly from Tel Aviv without certainty. We need a clear commitment to proper operations at Terminal 1 and approval of schedules for the summer season,” the company spokesperson stated.
However, Ryanair indicates its willingness to cooperate with Ben Gurion Airport management in the event of a temporary move to Terminal 3, provided that costs remain the same as Terminal 1 rates.
Response from the Israel Airports Authority: “Operating with Full Equality”
The Israel Airports Authority responded that the allocation of time slots is done according to international rules and equally for all airlines. “We have approached many airlines, including Ryanair, to encourage a return to operations in Israel. The local market is attractive and has high occupancy rates, and we hope Ryanair will also return to operate here soon,” stated the Airports Authority.
Awaiting Clarifications
Ryanair emphasizes that only after receiving clear commitments to ensure its proper operations next summer and maintaining its effective low-cost model, will it consider resuming operations from Israel. Until then, the airline will remain out of the Israeli market, leaving a significant gap in the low-cost flight map from Ben Gurion.
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