More than a thousand individuals have lost their lives, and thousands more have been wounded following an unprecedented attack by Hamas militants originating from Gaza into Israel on Saturday, as reported by Israeli authorities.
The Israeli Defense Forces have announced a “state of alert for war,” in a statement released early Saturday morning.
As of Thursday, the Israeli Health Ministry has reported a death toll of at least 1,200 , with an additional 2,900 individuals injured within Israel. Meanwhile, in Gaza, the situation is equally dire, with 1,417 casualties , including 447 children and 248 women , resulting from Israel’s retaliatory airstrikes. The Palestinian Health Ministry indicates that roughly 6,268 others are injured in Gaza.
Cruise Lines Change, Cancel Itineraries Following Israel Attack
Level 3 travel advisory to Israel, West Bank
On Wednesday, the U.S. State Department raised its elevated its advisory for travel for Israel and the West Bank to a Level 3 , urging travelers to ” reconsider travel ” due to concerns related to “terrorism and civil unrest.” Notably, the department has issued a “do not travel” advisory for Gaza due to the prevailing conditions.
Is travel to Israel suspended?
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) maintains its advisory for U.S. airlines and pilots, emphasizing the need for caution when flying within Israeli airspace .
On Saturday, the FAA issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) to pilots, which included a reference to a “potentially hazardous situation” and advised operators to exercise extreme caution .
In an updated NOTAM released on Tuesday, the FAA clarified that there are currently no restrictions for United States certificated airmen or operators regarding operations into or out of Israel.
Additionally, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) released a Conflict Zone Information Bulletin (CZIB) for Israeli airspace on Sunday. EASA recommended that air operators ensure they have a robust risk assessment in place, coupled with a high level of contingency planning for their operations. They should also be prepared for short-notice instructions from Israeli authorities.
Which airlines have canceled flights?
Major U.S. airlines and several foreign carriers have, as of Thursday morning, halted their services to and from Israel . However, a number of airlines, including the Israeli flag carrier El Al , are still operating flights.
American Airlines has canceled its flights to and from Tel Aviv up to December 4, with the airline noting that they are closely monitoring the situation and will make any necessary adjustments.
Delta Air Lines has suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv until the end of October, expressing sympathy for those affected and working to find secure alternatives for departing passengers.
United Airlines has indicated that its flights to and from Tel Aviv will remain suspended until conditions permit their resumption.
Air Canada has canceled several flights to and from Tel Aviv up to Friday.
As for European airlines , Air France has suspended flights to Tel Aviv “until further notice,” while British Airways has also temporarily suspended its flights to Tel Aviv.
Here’s the information in a table :
| Airline | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | Flights canceled | Canceled flights to and from Tel Aviv until at least December 4, 2023, with ongoing monitoring for adjustments. |
| Delta Air Lines | Flights suspended | Flights to and from Tel Aviv suspended until the end of October; seeking secure alternatives for passengers. |
| United Airlines | Flights suspended | Flights to and from Tel Aviv remain suspended until conditions allow for resumption. |
| Air Canada | Flights canceled | Canceled several flights to and from Tel Aviv up to Friday. |
| El Al (Israeli flag carrier) | Operating flights | El Al continues to operate flights. |
| Air France | Flights suspended | Flights to Tel Aviv suspended “until further notice.” |
| British Airways | Flights temporarily suspended | Temporary suspension of flights to Tel Aviv. |
State Department issues Level 3 advisory for travel to Israel
