Uncertainty regarding flights with origin or destination Israel after the Gaza conflict began led to widespread disruption on Saturday, followed by partial resumption on Sunday. Iberia Express canceled two flights on Saturday but planned to operate its Sunday service at 11:40 local time. Airline sources told El Periódico de Catalunya of the Prensa Ibérica group that efforts were underway to rearrange schedules in the days ahead.
A similar pattern emerged with Vueling. The Barcelona to Tel Aviv route was suspended on Saturday night but is expected to return to service. The 5:50 a.m. flight was slated to depart this afternoon, according to the company, which also indicated that tonight’s Barcelona departure remains a possibility.
Israel hits Hamas targets in Gaza as it readies a larger counter-offensive
The situation in Israel led Iberia Express to cancel flights to Tel Aviv on Saturday, with a company statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) noting the disruption to two daily services at 11:40 and 17:00 after an attack by more than 100 armed assailants, as rockets were launched by Hamas. On Sunday, the airline planned to operate the first flight while the second remained under review, with a decision possibly coming on Monday morning.
Two IAG group airlines announced greater flexibility for travelers, promising updates and options to change tickets without penalties. Customers were urged to monitor official communications for any changes.
At Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv, FlightAware data showed that about 16% (46) of arrivals and departures on Saturday were canceled, and roughly 23% (64) were delayed. Reports from EFE indicated that cancellations included Lufthansa, Emirates, Ryanair, Aegean Airlines, and Air France. Lufthansa announced it would operate a single flight to Frankfurt, while all other Lufthansa services to and from Tel Aviv were canceled for the day.
ITA Airlines, the Italian carrier formerly known as Air Italia, canceled Saturday flights to Tel Aviv and stated it would not operate again until Tuesday morning, the 10th, due to the ongoing situation in the region.
Contact with airlines
The Spanish embassy in Israel advised travelers to contact airlines and travel agents before heading to Ben Gurion Airport, located near Lod, southeast of Tel Aviv. The advisory noted that travelers should verify flight status given ongoing disruptions and potential changes to schedules.
The conflict has resulted in a heavy human toll, with reports of casualties and injuries on both sides. As authorities assess the evolving security situation, airlines are adjusting operations and offering flexible options to passengers planning trips to or from the area.