Airlines begin gradual return to Israel after ceasefire agreement

The low-cost airline Wizz Air has announced the gradual resumption of operations in Israel, starting on December 20. The airline will initially restore service on the Tel Aviv-Larnaca route, with four flights per week. 

Wizz Air also stated that details on other routes, expected to resume from January 15, will be shared at a later date. Originally planning to restart its Israel operations on January 15, Wizz Air is now the first airline to bring its return forward.

Earlier today, Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) became the first airline to officially announce its return to Israel, starting flights on November 30. The airline is offering a 30% discount on tickets purchased by December 1, for travel until April 2025.

Azerbaijan Airlines had previously halted its Tel Aviv-Baku route when the conflict intensified. The flights resumed briefly in March this year, with plans to expand operations in Israel. However, following the pager attack on Hezbollah in Lebanon in September, the airline suspended flights again. The return of AZAL marks a significant step in restoring air connectivity to the region.

Sources indicate that Aegean Airlines of Greece is also expected to resume flights to Israel in December. Industry experts are optimistic about a broader recovery in aviation following the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon.

The return of airlines like Wizz Air, Azerbaijan Airlines, and potentially Aegean Airlines reflects cautious optimism in the aviation industry as the situation stabilizes. 

Expanded airline operations are expected to increase options for travelers and reduce ticket prices, providing a much-needed boost to regional tourism and business connectivity.

The return of foreign airlines marks the end of the monopoly for El Al and other Israeli carriers.

For the past year, El Al has achieved exceptional profits due to its monopoly and very high fares.