Israel resumes outbound flights after closure amid Iran war

Israel has reopened its airspace for outbound flights for the first time since the escalation with Iran began.

The first passenger flights departed from Ben Gurion Airport, Caliber,Az reports via the airport’s press service.

“The airport has partially resumed operations for departing flights,” the statement said.

Authorities have also increased the passenger quota per flight from 70 to 100, with outbound flights operated by Israeli carriers El Al, Israir, and Arkia.

Israel completely closed its airspace to civilian flights starting on February 28, 2026, following a joint US-Israeli attack on Iran. Ben Gurion Airport suspended operations, with major carriers canceling flights through March 7, 2026. The closure stranded tens of thousands of travelers throughout the Middle East.

By Khagan Isayev