Turkish Airlines May Resume Flights to Israel

The management of Turkish Airlines, one of Turkey's largest airlines, is considering applying to the Israel Airports Authority in the coming days to resume flights to Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport. This move, which could be of special significance for the Israeli aviation sector, is seen as one of the first signs of a possible warming of tense relations between the two countries.

This shift is taking place against the backdrop of several important political developments. First, it follows Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's visit to Washington and his meeting with his American counterpart. In addition, negotiations on establishing a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, which are proceeding within the framework of a plan put forward by the US President, have intensified.

It should be recalled that Turkish Airlines planes had stopped flying to Israel in October 2023, after the start of the war and the sharp deterioration of relations between the two countries. On April 28, 2025, the airline officially announced that its routes to Israel were permanently canceled.

Until October 7, 2023, Turkey was one of the most visited destinations by Israelis. This was facilitated by its close geographical position, relatively affordable prices, and tourist appeal. Before the start of the war, at least 16 round-trip flights were operated daily between Israel and Turkey, which testifies to the close economic and tourist ties between the two countries. Istanbul was also an important transit hub for Israeli travelers heading to Europe, North America, and Asia.

Now, if flights resume, it could be seen not only as a commercial move but also as part of a broader political process aimed at reducing regional tensions and restoring the once-active dialogue between Ankara and Tel Aviv.