UAE airlines the first to resume flights to Israel since beginning of Operation Epic Fury in Iran

Two Emirati carriers are among the first international airlines to resume flying to Israel since the war against Iran began on Feb.28, highlighting the close cooperation and burgeoning ties between the two countries forged by the landmark Abraham Accords.The resumption of service by Abu Dhabi’s flag carrier, Etihad, and low-cost FlyDubai to Tel Aviv puts them ahead of all major European and American airlines, which have not yet resumed flights to Israel.“The fact that FlyDubai and Etihad have returned to Tel Aviv as one of the first and few foreign carriers to come back is a testament to their belief in Israel’s economy, and the strong appeal both airlines hold with the Israeli public,” Mark Feldman, CEO of Jerusalem’s Ziontours, told JNS on Monday.With limited service to and from Israel on international carriers and fares on the four Israeli carriers high due to demand, the two Emirati airlines are marketing their popular connecting flights to and from the Far East and the United States for travelers to and from Israel.The United Arab Emirates was the first signatory of the landmark 2020 Abraham Accords, which saw four Arab countries make peace with Israel.The close security cooperation between the two nations has only grown since the war began, when the two countries came under Iranian missile and drone attack, forcing the temporary closure of both nations’ airports.“The Emirates were one of the leading destinations among Israelis even before the war, with strong demand that relied on a combination of tourism business and accessibility,” said Yoni Waksman, deputy chairman of Israel’s Ophir Tours.

“The return of the routes is expected to quickly restore pent-up demand, especially for a route that has already proven its durability and attractiveness over time.”“The gradual return of airlines from the Emirates is significant news for the Israeli market, because it is one of the most important air routes for passengers from Israel—both as a ...