Air India has announced it will resume regular scheduled flights between Tel Aviv and Delhi starting January 1, 2026, marking a significant return after more than two years of minimal service to Israel.
Flight Details#
The carrier will operate five weekly flights on the Tel Aviv-Delhi route:
- Days: Sunday through Thursday
- Flight duration: Approximately 5.5 hours
This schedule provides nearly daily connectivity between the two countries, offering convenient options for both business and leisure travelers.
Importance for Israelis and Indian Community#
The resumption represents a significant development for travelers seeking connections to destinations across Asia. Air India’s route network provides Israelis with access to numerous cities throughout India and beyond, while also serving the Indian community in Israel with direct links to home.
Cautious Approach Since 2023#
Since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023, Air India has maintained a cautious approach to Israel operations. The airline has only operated occasional and brief service resumptions, avoiding flights unless there were extended periods of relative calm in the region.
The most recent service resumption occurred in March 2024, but flights were suspended again in May after a Houthi missile landed within Ben Gurion Airport grounds.
Looking Ahead#
The January 2026 restart suggests Air India is confident in improved security conditions for sustained operations. The return of a major foreign carrier to the Tel Aviv route is a positive signal for Israel’s aviation sector, which has seen reduced international connectivity during the conflict period.
Source: Globes
