KLM scraps Tel Aviv flights day after promising to return

2026-01-28 - 14:05

Just one day after publishing the opposite response, KLM reversed course and announced on Wednesday that it will not resume its flights to Tel Aviv. "Selecting safe and optimal flight routes is an integral part of our daily operational routine. Based on the current security situation and operational feasibility, it has been decided at this stage not to resume flights to Tel Aviv," the Dutch company stated. "We have already resumed flight operations to additional destinations in the region, including Riyadh and Dammam (Saudi Arabia). As for Dubai, we are currently examining the possibility of resuming operations starting Friday, January 30. We continue to closely monitor developments. As soon as it is safe and responsible to do so, we will act to offer our customers flights again." KLM aircraft are seen on the tarmac at Schipol airport near Amsterdam April 15, 2015 (Photo: Reuters/Yves Herman) REUTERS Meanwhile, airlines ITA Airways and the Lufthansa Group (which includes Swiss, Austrian, Brussels Airlines, and Eurowings) extended the suspension of night flights from Israel until January 31. On the other hand, Blue Bird Airways, under European and Israeli ownership, is joining Israeli airlines El Al, Arkia, and Israir in offering flexible options for ticket cancellations or changes. The company announced that it will allow cancellations with a full refund via voucher up to 48 hours before departure through its service center. Cancellation will be possible for new bookings made between January 26, 2026, and February 5, 2026, inclusive, when the departure date for those flights is until February 7, 2026. The voucher's validity is two years from its issue date.