Israel-Bound Flights From Dubai Operate With Carry-On Luggage Only

Rescue flights from Dubai to Israel will commence on Thursday and continue until Monday, operating under special security arrangements. Passengers will only be permitted to bring carry-on luggage or a trolley onto the plane, with checked baggage to be shipped separately to Israel after undergoing security screening. This measure is a result of a security dispute between Israeli aviation security officials and Dubai-based airlines concerning enhanced screening and security protocols. Due to this disagreement, flights to Dubai were restricted, preventing normal operations.

Following pressure from the Israeli Minister of Transportation and intervention by the Shin Bet, Israeli airlines have been granted permission to operate these rescue flights. The arrangement allows passengers to depart Dubai with their carry-on items while their larger suitcases are subjected to separate security checks. These checked bags are expected to be sent to Israel on cargo planes departing daily from Dubai.

This modified flight operation is scheduled to last until Monday. After this date, a return to normal operations, allowing passengers to travel with their checked luggage, is anticipated. However, the resumption of regular service is contingent upon security developments and approvals, meaning flight schedules and formats may still change.

Israeli airlines have already published the prices for these rescue flights. El Al offers one-way tickets starting at $249, Arkia at $279, and Israir at $299.