What’s happening
Israel’s national airline, El Al, has announced that it will extend its suspension of flights to and from Moscow until the end of March. This decision follows last week’s initial halt of air traffic on this route due to “developments in Russia’s airspace.” The action was taken after an Azerbaijan Airlines jet tragically crashed in Kazakhstan, reportedly downed by Russian air defenses, dramatically affecting the aviation landscape.
Why it matters
The suspension of El Al flights, part of its proactive approach to ensuring passenger safety, underscores Israel’s dedication to monitoring air travel security in volatile regions. El Al’s decision influences not only Israeli travel but also reflects on international dynamics where other airlines like flydubai, Kazakhstan’s Qazaq Air, and Azerbaijan Airlines have similarly suspended routes to Russia. Israel has a considerable Russian-speaking populace, about 1.3 million residents, who are directly affected by such changes.
Backdrop
El Al was among the last Western airlines operating in Russia since the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine led to widespread international sanctions. Before the suspension, the airline ran five weekday flights between Tel Aviv and Moscow, serving a significant demographic of Israeli citizens with family ties to Russia.
The response
In addressing the concerns of Israelis affected by the flight suspensions, El Al has permitted passengers with tickets on the Moscow-Tel Aviv route to travel from any European location to Israel at no extra cost. This thoughtful customer-oriented solution reduces the impact on travelers amidst the geopolitical complexities.
The broader perspective
This incident and its ramifications have illuminated the challenges in Russia’s neighboring airspaces. The unexplained crash of Azerbaijan Airlines’ flight highlights unresolved tensions in these regions as countries navigate the risks posed by military air defense engagements. Russian President Vladimir Putin’s partial acknowledgement of the use of air defenses in relevant airspaces is a step in recognizing the implications of such military measures.
El Al’s decision confirms its collaboration with international authorities to prioritize passenger safety and reflects Israel’s considered posture on international flight operations for its citizens in complex political climates.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.