Israeli Airlines to Resume Flights to Dubai After Security Deal

Following a dramatic incident on a Flydubai flight, the United Arab Emirates has agreed to Israel's security demands, paving the way for Israeli airlines to resume flights to Dubai. This development comes after an absence of flights by local carriers to the region since Operation "Lion's Roar," with services previously not expected to restart until late October. The exact date for the agreement's signing and the resumption of flights remains unclear.

For months, Israel's security agencies, including the Shin Bet, had prevented El Al, Arkia, and Israir from flying to the UAE until a security agreement was finalized. During this period, Gulf carriers like Flydubai and Etihad benefited significantly, capturing approximately 7% of air traffic at Ben Gurion Airport and experiencing a substantial increase in passenger numbers.

El Al announced its readiness to restart operations on the Tel Aviv-Dubai route in November, planning for at least two daily flights, after an eight-month hiatus. However, the resumption is contingent on receiving official approvals from relevant state authorities. Arkia CEO Oz Berlowitz emphasized the importance of Israeli airlines returning to the route, stating that the current situation, dominated by foreign airlines, is unsustainable and hinders competition and passenger choice.

Arkia estimates it loses about $1 million each winter month the route is inactive, considering it their most crucial route for the season. The agreement signifies a normalization of air travel between the two nations after a period of security-related disruptions.