Just as it seemed Israel's aviation crisis was easing, a ballistic missile launched from Yemen by the Houthis struck Ben Gurion Airport, reigniting chaos in the skies. In response, several international airlines suspended flights to Israel, triggering a sharp spike in airfare—just ahead of the peak summer travel season.
Larnaca, Cyprus, which had become a key hub for rerouted flights following widespread cancellations, saw a dramatic price increase. Roundtrip fares that cost approximately $200 (including a carry-on) in early April now start at around $391 on the same Israeli carriers—nearly double the price, despite strong competition on the route.
The moment the ballistic missile hit Ben Gurion airport | Watch
Other popular summer destinations have seen similar hikes. A direct flight to Vilnius, Lithuania with Israir, previously priced at $240 per person, now costs at least $401 for travel between June 26 and 30, excluding carry-on luggage.
In Tirana, Albania, Arkia's fare for early July, which was $470 just a week ago, now starts at $684. Israir's tickets for July 4–7 have risen from $525 to $610—again, without carry-on.
One outlier is Sun d'Or, where prices have remained stable at $561 per passenger.
Even longtime Israeli favorite Rhodes is affected. While Wizz Air previously offered tickets for $343 (without carry-on), the airline has now suspended operations to and from Tel Aviv. An El Al ticket for July 4–7 now starts at $470.
Flights to Kalamata, Greece with Arkia have risen slightly, from $461 to $488 for early July.
The city of Iași, Romania, once accessible via Wizz Air for $278 (July 7–14), now costs at least $529 on El Al.
Zurich fares have skyrocketed: Wizz Air previously charged $129 (excluding carry-on), but now Israir's tickets for August 5–15 start at $849. El Al shows no availability for July and August.
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Berlin-bound travelers face a steep rise too. A Ryanair ticket last week cost $152, but the same dates now cost $610 with El Al.
Even lesser-known destinations are affected. A week ago, flights to Sármellék near Lake Balaton in Hungary cost $470 on Arkia; today, prices have jumped to $537—carry-on not included.
With major airlines suspending operations and Israeli carriers struggling to meet demand, travel costs are climbing fast, and uncertainty hangs over the summer travel season for Israelis.