EL AL Israel Airlines announced the suspension of all its flights globally, including key routes from Florida, due to heightened security measures following Israel’s military airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities and military leadership.
This unprecedented move has significantly disrupted travel plans, particularly impacting Israel-bound passengers scheduled to fly from South Florida airports, including Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Miami International Airport. The airline issued an urgent advisory via its official website at 6:29 p.m. Israel time on Friday, confirming the complete halt of flight operations due to the immediate closure of Israeli airspace, notably affecting Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, Israel’s main gateway for international travel.
Passengers booked on EL AL flights departing Saturday evening and Sunday were instructed explicitly not to arrive at airports but to await further updates regarding their travel status. Additionally, the airline recommended passengers currently abroad arrange temporary accommodations until updated security protocols are issued by Israeli authorities.
The airline has further taken preventive measures by suspending new bookings for all EL AL and Sundor flights scheduled until June 30, 2025, citing unclear security circumstances and the necessity of prioritizing arrangements for Israeli travelers impacted by the immediate flight cancellations. Sundor, a subsidiary of EL AL, primarily offers seasonal flight services, mostly across various European destinations.
EL AL’s latest announcement underscores the airline’s cooperation with Israeli governmental security agencies, reiterating that passenger and crew safety remains their foremost priority during this critical situation.
This suspension arrives amidst EL AL’s ongoing strategic shift in operations within Florida. The carrier had previously announced plans to consolidate its South Florida services entirely at Miami International Airport, ceasing operations from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport by April 14, 2026. The airline launched year-round flights from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood in the previous year, complementing its robust services from Miami.
The comprehensive suspension affects a significant number of American travelers, particularly from heavily trafficked hubs such as New York’s JFK International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, and Los Angeles International Airport, all of which maintain regular nonstop flights to Tel Aviv.
Israeli authorities have not provided a definitive timeline for the reopening of national airspace or Ben Gurion Airport, leaving thousands of international travelers in uncertainty. Travel industry experts emphasize the potential for prolonged disruption if geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran persist.
The United States Department of State, meanwhile, has issued cautionary advisories urging Americans in Israel or those planning imminent travel to monitor the evolving security situation closely and consider alternative travel arrangements. The advisory highlights the importance of maintaining regular contact with airlines and following directives from local authorities.
Travelers affected by EL AL’s suspension are encouraged to reach out directly to the airline’s customer service channels for real-time updates and potential rescheduling opportunities once the airspace reopens. EL AL continues to engage proactively with affected passengers, promising transparent communication and assistance.
Local hotels in Miami and Fort Lauderdale have reported increased reservation requests from passengers stranded due to these flight cancellations, as travelers seek safe temporary lodging while awaiting further information.
The broader international aviation community remains attentive to the unfolding situation, aware of potential implications for air travel security protocols globally. Travel advisors recommend passengers regularly review their travel insurance policies to understand coverage specifics related to disruptions caused by geopolitical events.
As developments occur, EL AL, in coordination with Israeli security and aviation authorities, will provide timely updates regarding the resumption of flight operations and the restoration of normal scheduling. Passengers are advised to stay vigilant and informed through verified channels as the situation evolves.
