Latest News

[GET IN TOUCH] Media Planner 2025!
[FREE WEBINAR] Creating accessible airports for all | 28 May 14:00 UK time
[REGISTER NOW AND GAIN INSIGHTS] Breaking down silos and orchestrating data to unlock a smarter airport | 26 June 14:00 UK time
[NEW WEBINAR | REGISTER NOW} Driving future-ready airport security checkpoints through intelligent software | 24 June 13:00 UK Time
[LATEST REPORT] Next-generation baggage operations for a new era of air travel
news

Houthi threats to Ben Gurion Airport spark fresh wave of airline suspensions to Israel over safety fears

Posted: 20 May 2025 | | No comments yet

Following renewed Houthi missile threats, major airlines have extended flight suspensions to Israel, citing escalating security risks near Ben Gurion Airport.

Houthi Israel Airport

Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi militia has again threatened to strike Israel’s main international gateway, Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), raising concerns over flight safety and prompting international airline responses.

Details on Houthis’ threats to Israel and Ben Gurion Airport 

On Monday, senior Houthi official Nasruddin Amer posted a photo of TLV on social media platform X with the warning: “In the coming hours, Yemeni forces will carry out military operations against Ben Gurion and other Zionist airports.” The statement mirrored recent IDF evacuation alerts for Houthi-held Yemeni ports.

The latest threat marks the second in 24 hours. Earlier, Amer warned: “We will strike Ben Gurion Airport in the coming hours. Evacuate immediately.” Speaking to Al Mayadeen, Amer urged international airlines to avoid TLV and Israeli airspace: “They should change course and take seriously the warnings of the Yemeni military… not only over Ben Gurion Airport but over all of Israeli airspace.”

In response, the Israeli Air Force bombed key Houthi infrastructure, including Sanaa Airport (SAH).

Amid the rising threat, several international airlines have suspended flights to Israel. Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary said Monday: “I think we’re running out of patience too with Israel… flights to and from Tel Aviv. If they’re going to keep being disrupted by these security disruptions, frankly, we’d be better off sending those aircraft somewhere else in Europe.”

Around 20 carriers have reportedly demanded reforms and compensation before resuming operations to Israel.

Airlines that have suspended flights to Israel  

  • Aegean Airlines – Suspended through May 21, 2025
  • LOT Polish Airlines – Suspended through May 25, 2025
  • United Airlines – Suspended through June 12, 2025
  • Lufthansa Group (includes Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Eurowings) – Suspended through May 25, 2025
  • Air France – Suspended through May 20, 2025
  • Transavia – Suspended through May 20, 2025
  • AirBaltic – Suspended through June 8, 2025
  • Ryanair – Suspended through June 4, 2025
  • Iberia Express – Suspended through May 31, 2025
  • British Airways – Suspended through June 14, 2025
  • Air Canada – Suspended until September 8, 2025
  • Air Seychelles – Suspended until August 2025

 

 

SIGN ME UP

 

Stay Ahead in Aviation — Subscribe for Free!

Get exclusive access to the latest aviation insights from International Airport Review — all tailored to your interests.

✅ Expert-Led Webinars – Learn from industry leaders
✅ Weekly News & Reports – Airport updates, thought leadership, and exclusive interviews
✅ Event Invitations – Be part of the International Airport Summit
✅ Partner Innovations – Discover the latest industry trends

Choose the updates that matter most to you. Sign up now and stay informed, inspired, and connected — all for free!

Thank you for being part of our community. Let’s keep exploring the future of aviation together!