Rescue Flights from Dubai to Israel Approved After Security Discussions

Rescue flights from Dubai to Israel have been approved and will commence immediately, with Arkia operating the first flight. On the following day, Israir and El Al will join, operating a total of five rescue flights. The Minister of Transportation, Miri Regev, stated that three flights will be operated by Arkia, one by Israir, and one by El Al. Additionally, a dedicated cargo flight will transport passengers' checked luggage separately.

Initially, these flights will operate under special security protocols. Passengers will only be permitted to bring carry-on luggage, such as a trolley, onto the plane. Larger suitcases will not be allowed in the cargo hold at this stage due to security requirements for flights from Dubai to Israel. The luggage will undergo a separate security screening process before being sent to Israel on cargo planes. Passengers will not have to wait for their luggage at the airport but will also not receive it on their arrival flight.

This arrangement follows days of uncertainty regarding the operation of flights by Israeli companies from Dubai, stemming from a security crisis related to flight operations to Israel. Israel had demanded enhanced security and screening measures at Dubai Airport, making the flight operations contingent on obtaining the necessary security approvals.

The suspension, initially for a few days, was extended until October 15th, pending the conclusion of the investigation and required checks. Flydubai's cancellation left many Israeli passengers in Dubai or planning to return from there without a flight option with the company, prompting Israeli airlines to prepare for rescue operations. With the approvals now granted, El Al, Arkia, and Israir are commencing operations to bring passengers back to Israel.

In the initial phase, the number of flights and luggage capacity will be determined by security directives. If the situation remains stable, the expectation is to gradually return to a more standard flight format, allowing passengers to travel with their checked luggage on the same flight.