Etihad Airways to launch hub at Ben-Gurion as UAE's flag airline schedules 42 weekly flights

Lead

Etihad Airways, the flag carrier of Abu Dhabi, has announced a major expansion of its operations at Ben-Gurion Airport, increasing its Tel Aviv–Abu Dhabi service to 42 weekly flights starting June 15. This move positions the route as the most frequently traveled in Etihad's network, even as other international airlines continue to suspend or limit flights to Israel amid ongoing regional security concerns.

Coverage Overview

The announcement was covered by two reports from the Jerusalem Post, which detailed both Etihad's expansion and the broader context of international airlines' responses to the security situation in the Middle East. The first report focused on Etihad's growth and passenger demand, while the second highlighted British Airways' extended cancellations and the cautious approach of other carriers.

Key Claims

Etihad's Expansion and Passenger Demand

According to the Jerusalem Post, Etihad will operate six daily flights between Ben-Gurion Airport and Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport, making the route the most traveled in its network. The airline reported that over 100,000 passengers flew between Tel Aviv and Abu Dhabi in the first three months of this year, a 30% increase compared to the same period last year. Approximately 70% of passengers used Abu Dhabi as a stopover for onward flights to Asia.

Etihad has also announced proposed fares for some high-demand routes, with round-trip tickets to Bangkok starting at $974 without a checked bag and $1,014 with one. The airline asserts these prices are below the average market price of $1,200.

Other Airlines' Suspensions

British Airways has extended its suspension of flights to Tel Aviv, Dubai, Bahrain, and Amman through at least October 25, 2026. The airline cited regional security uncertainty and difficulties reaching a stable arrangement with Iran as reasons for continuing to freeze these routes. However, British Airways plans to resume flights to Doha and Riyadh in August.

Delta Air Lines will not resume its New York–Tel Aviv route before September 6, while its Atlanta route remains suspended until December 18. The launch of a new Boston–Tel Aviv route has been postponed without a new date.

American Airlines has extended its flight cancellations to Tel Aviv and Doha until January 2027, meaning the airline will have been absent from the Israeli market for more than three years upon its return.

United Airlines currently plans to resume flights to Tel Aviv and Dubai on September 7, though the date is subject to change.

Perspectives

Etihad's Strategic Expansion: The airline's decision to significantly increase capacity on the Tel Aviv route reflects growing demand for travel to Asia and a competitive pricing strategy. Etihad's expansion occurs despite the cautious approach of other carriers, suggesting confidence in the route's viability.

International Airlines' Caution: British Airways, Delta, American, and United have adopted a more conservative stance, extending suspensions or postponing resumptions due to regional security risks and geopolitical uncertainties. This divergence highlights the varying risk assessments among airlines.

Passenger Impact: For travelers, Etihad's expansion offers more options and competitive fares to Asia, while the continued suspensions by other carriers limit choices for direct flights to North America and Europe, potentially affecting travel plans and ticket prices.