Air India flight AI139, travelling from Delhi to Tel Aviv, was diverted to Abu Dhabi on May 3, 2025, after a missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport in Israel. The missile, reportedly fired from Yemen, landed near the airport, prompting the airline to take emergency action. The flight was less than an hour away from landing in Tel Aviv when the decision was made to reroute it. As a result, Air India has suspended all flights to and from Tel Aviv until May 6, 2025, to ensure the safety of its passengers and crew.

Incident Details: The Missile Strike and Rerouting of Flight AI139

The missile that struck the area near Ben Gurion Airport caused an immediate suspension of air traffic. The missile was launched from Yemen, and it landed just north of the airport, triggering emergency protocols. Flight AI139, which was operating a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, was flying through Jordanian airspace when the reroute was decided. Flight tracking platform Flightradar24 confirmed the aircraft’s position, noting that it was still in Jordanian airspace when the diversion was made.

Air India confirmed the diversion in a statement, explaining that AI139 was rerouted to Abu Dhabi, where it landed safely. The airline added that the flight will return to Delhi shortly after its landing in Abu Dhabi. In the wake of the attack, the airline temporarily suspended its operations to and from Tel Aviv for safety reasons. The suspension will remain in effect until May 6, 2025.

Air India’s Response: Waivers and Refunds for Affected Passengers

Air India also offered waivers and refunds for passengers impacted by the flight disruptions. The airline announced a special waiver policy for customers holding valid tickets for flights between May 3 and May 6, 2025. Affected passengers can avail of a one-time waiver for rescheduling their flights or receive a full refund for cancellations.

Air India stressed that passenger and crew safety remains its top priority, and it is assisting affected travellers with alternate travel arrangements. The airline’s ground staff is helping customers navigate the disruption, providing the necessary support to manage their travel plans.

Background: Impact of Regional Conflicts on Aviation

This missile strike is part of the broader regional instability, particularly in the Middle East, where tensions have been high due to conflicts involving Yemen, Israel, and surrounding nations. Such incidents have caused safety concerns for international airlines flying through the region, leading to more stringent safety measures and temporary suspensions of operations.

What’s Next: Air India’s Plan for Reopening Tel Aviv Services

While Air India has suspended its flights to Tel Aviv until May 6, it is expected that services will resume after a review of safety conditions. The airline has assured passengers that the resumption of operations will be based on updated safety protocols that prioritise the well-being of all passengers and crew members.

Conclusion

The missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing instability in the region, which can have far-reaching consequences on global aviation. Air India’s decision to suspend flights to Tel Aviv and offer refunds and waivers highlights the airline’s commitment to passenger safety. Passengers affected by the disruption are advised to contact Air India for further assistance with their travel arrangements.

This incident also underscores the importance of regional security in ensuring the smooth functioning of international air travel, as conflicts can create significant risks for both airlines and their passengers.

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