Israel to Begin Rescue Flights for Stranded Citizens Amid High Demand

Local airlines are gearing up to start flights returning to Israel on Wednesday with limited capacity, focusing on medical emergencies, military personnel, and stranded tour groups. This initiative comes as Israel prepares to repatriate tens of thousands of citizens stranded abroad due to the closure of its airspace.

Operation Safe Return

Transportation Minister Miri Regev announced the launch of Operation Safe Return, which will involve rescue flights from various destinations including Thailand, Larnaca, Athens, Italy, and the US. El Al Israel Airlines Ltd. is set to operate these rescue flights as part of a limited and staged plan.

Government Rescue Plan

The government’s rescue plan will include flights from major cities serviced by El Al, with a focus on bringing back stranded citizens. While outbound travel is not included in this stage, the airlines will soon announce the list of cities and flight times.

High Demand

More than 60,000 passengers have already signed up on El Al’s registration site, highlighting the urgent need for repatriation flights. However, the directive from Israel instructing airlines not to allow Israeli citizens to leave until the rescue flights start aims to prevent overcrowding at Ben-Gurion Airport.

Next Steps

El Al has announced the addition of new rescue flights to various destinations, including Frankfurt and Istanbul, to bring back stranded Israelis. Private airlines and the Israeli shipping company Mano Maritime will also be mobilized to ensure the safe return of citizens by air or sea.