Tel Aviv, Israel (May 13, 2026)
Several major European airlines are preparing to return to Ben Gurion Airport following a change in aviation safety guidance from European regulators, marking an important step toward restoring international air service to Israel.
The renewed activity comes after the European Union Aviation Safety Agency lowered its regional warning from an avoidance recommendation to a heightened-caution level. The shift has allowed carriers to begin rebuilding schedules while continuing to coordinate with security and aviation authorities.
Wizz Air is expected to be among the first large European carriers to return, with service scheduled to resume on May 28. The airline is approaching the restart gradually, with officials indicating that the decision follows security reviews and coordination with relevant agencies.
The Lufthansa Group is also planning a phased return. Austrian Airlines and Lufthansa Cargo are expected to restart operations on June 1, beginning the group’s reentry into the Israeli market. Passenger service by Lufthansa and SWISS is scheduled to resume on July 1, while Eurowings is expected to follow by mid-July.
Not all Lufthansa Group carriers are returning immediately. Brussels Airlines has extended its suspension of Tel Aviv flights through October 24, reflecting the continued caution among some European operators despite the improved safety assessment.
The planned resumptions are significant for Israeli travelers, who have faced reduced flight options, higher fares, and frequent schedule changes since many foreign airlines suspended service. A broader return of European carriers could help ease pressure on ticket availability and reconnect Israel with key destinations across the continent.
Ben Gurion Airport has remained open with service from Israeli airlines and a smaller group of foreign carriers, but the absence of major European airlines has limited travel options for both residents and visitors.
The latest announcements suggest that international confidence is slowly improving, though airlines are expected to continue monitoring security conditions closely. Further schedule changes remain possible depending on regional developments and updated guidance from aviation authorities.