EU Aviation Safety Agency loosens restrictions on flights to Israel

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has eased restrictions on flights to Israel, downgrading its aviation risk classification for the country and surrounding regions. The agency replaced its high-risk conflict zone advisory with a medium-level Information Note, allowing airlines to make their own security assessments regarding resuming service.

The previous Conflict Zone Information Bulletin covering the Middle East and Persian Gulf expired on July 8, and EASA opted not to extend it. Under the expired designation, airlines faced stricter security requirements and risk assessments, influencing their decisions on routes and potentially leading to higher insurance premiums. The new advisory means carriers like easyJet, Ryanair, and WizzAir can now consider returning to Israel based on their own evaluations.

This adjustment by EASA occurred before US President Donald Trump announced the end of the US-Iran ceasefire, following skirmishes in the Strait of Hormuz. While EASA has placed Israel in a medium-risk category, it maintains high-risk bulletins for Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon. The agency, along with the European Commission and EU member states, will continue to monitor regional developments.

Major international airlines, including American carriers, had suspended flights to Israel at various times over the past three years due to ongoing conflict, particularly after the October 7 Hamas attacks and the recent Iran-Israel war. The decision to lower the risk level comes as Israeli authorities manage operational challenges at Ben Gurion Airport, with plans to relocate some US Air Force refueling aircraft to Israeli bases to ease pressure during the summer travel season.