New Delhi: Air India has opted to suspend its flights to Tel Aviv for two days following a missile strike at Ben Gurion Airport. After the incident, the airline announced that flights originating from Delhi would be redirected to Abu Dhabi. Passengers holding valid tickets for the affected dates are being offered options for rescheduling or exemptions.
According to their statement, this action was taken to prioritize the safety of both passengers and crew. The specific flight, Air India Flight AI139, which typically flies from Delhi to Tel Aviv, was altered to land in Abu Dhabi instead after the attack occurred this morning.
Furthermore, travelers with tickets booked between May 3 and May 6 this year will have the chance for a one-time rescheduling or a full refund for cancellations. “We want to emphasize that the safety of our customers and crew is paramount,” the airline stated.
Reports indicate that four individuals sustained injuries due to the missile, which was launched from Yemen, landing close to the airport’s main terminal. Although operations were briefly halted, authorities confirmed the airport has since reopened.
Yahya Saree, a spokesperson for the Houthi Army, asserted that Ben Gurion Airport is “no longer safe for air travel.” In response, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has vowed to deliver a severe retaliation, insisting that “anyone who strikes us will face a counterstrike seven times as strong.”
The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for several missile and drone assaults on Israel, declaring their actions are in support of the Palestinian cause.
