Israel Airport Authority Reports September Passenger Traffic Amidst Flydubai Controversy

This figure, however, represents a 14.81% increase over September of the previous year, largely attributed to the Jewish High Holidays falling within the month. Israeli airlines continued to dominate, carrying 1.2 million passengers, or 53.5% of the total, marking a 10.25% rise from the prior September.

Larnaca Airport in Cyprus saw the highest traffic volume among destinations, with 145,663 passengers, a nearly 20% increase year-over-year. Greece was the most popular country for travelers, with 397,600 passengers, followed by Cyprus (200,000), Italy (197,000), and the United States (163,000).

The United Arab Emirates emerged as the fifth most popular destination, attracting 134,800 passengers in September, an increase of 14,000 from the previous year.

Flydubai transported 75,000 passengers in September, making it the sixth busiest airline at the airport. Despite the controversy surrounding its flights, the airline had carried approximately half a million passengers since the start of the year. However, Flydubai has suspended its flights to Israel until further notice.

Etihad Airways, another UAE carrier, saw significant growth, flying 59,400 passengers in September, up from 31,600 the previous year. The airline has carried nearly 390,000 passengers year-to-date, ranking seventh. Israeli airlines are expected to increase their presence in the UAE market starting next month.