Ryanair Halts Winter Flights to Tel Aviv Over Slot, Terminal Dispute
Ryanair has announced it will not resume low-fare flights to or from Tel Aviv this winter due to a dispute over slots and terminal access at Ben Gurion Airport. The carrier has demanded confirmation that the low-cost terminal T1 will remain open during future security issues.
The decision comes after Ben Gurion Airport refused to confirm Ryanair's historic S26 summer slots and did not guarantee the continued availability of terminal T1. Ryanair requires this to operate profitable low-fare services.
Ryanair's spokesperson stated that the carrier is willing to temporarily move to terminal T3 if it suits Ben Gurion Airport's needs. However, the services should continue to be costed at T1 rates. The non-resolution of this situation may result in a loss of around 1 million seats and 22 routes.
Ryanair's Tel Aviv services were repeatedly disrupted this summer due to security concerns and terminal closures. The carrier has made a loss due to these disruptions and is unwilling to tolerate further issues.
Ryanair will not restart flights until Ben Gurion Airport confirms its historic slots and the future availability of terminal T1. The refusal to restart flights is due to Ben Gurion Airport's refusal to confirm Ryanair's historic slots for next summer. The carrier is prepared to negotiate but insists on clear guarantees.
