El Al Cancels Direct Vietnam Flights After Security Clearance Denied

El Al announced the cancellation of its planned direct flights from Israel to Hanoi, Vietnam, which were scheduled to begin in October. The decision came after the Israeli security authorities, guided by the Shin Bet, refused to grant the necessary security approvals for operating the route with Israeli aircraft and crews.

The airline had initially received preliminary approvals from relevant security bodies and proceeded with operational preparations, investing significant resources. Tickets were sold to passengers before the final denial of clearance was communicated. El Al expressed regret over the cancellation and apologized to affected customers.

To accommodate passengers who purchased tickets, El Al is offering flexible options including rerouting flights to Hanoi via Bangkok with a partner airline at no extra cost, switching to alternative El Al destinations on the same dates without additional fees, or providing full refunds or future travel vouchers. The cancellations will be phased according to the original flight schedule, with personalized notifications to impacted travelers starting next week.