SAS Cancels Return to Israel Citing Unsuitable Conditions

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has canceled its planned resumption of direct flights between Copenhagen and Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport, originally scheduled for October 26. The airline cited a reassessment of operational and commercial circumstances, stating that conditions are currently not suitable for launching the route. SAS had announced its intention to return to Israel in early September, marking a return after a significant break coinciding with the start of the winter aviation season.

Despite the cancellation of the October date, SAS has not announced a definitive withdrawal from the Israeli market. The company emphasized that Tel Aviv remains an important destination for both the airline and its passengers, and they will continue to monitor the situation with the possibility of resuming flights in the future. However, no new return date has been provided.

SAS's decision is part of a broader trend among foreign airlines reconsidering their operations in Israel due to security concerns and associated risks. Other carriers, including EasyJet and Ryanair, have also postponed or canceled planned routes and winter schedules to Tel Aviv. This reduction in foreign airline presence leads to fewer direct flight options for Israeli travelers to Europe and potentially limits ticket availability and price competition, particularly from low-cost carriers.

The cancellation is especially significant given Copenhagen's role as a major aviation hub in Northern Europe. The canceled route could have served not only travel to Denmark but also as a connection for onward flights to Scandinavia and other European destinations.