Alon Lavi, Director of Operations at EL AL’s Control Center, provided an update for North American customers following new restrictions at Ben Gurion Airport. Israeli authorities have capped outbound flights at 15 per day, with a maximum of 50 passengers per flight, reducing operational capacity to roughly 5% of normal levels as of March 23, 2026. The restrictions primarily affect key North American and European routes, including New York, Los Angeles, Miami, London, Paris, Rome, and Athens.

Inbound flights to the U.S. will face fewer disruptions, though schedule adjustments are possible. Airlines are prioritizing seat allocations based on original ticket purchase dates, ensuring those booked earliest are given priority on the limited flights. EL AL emphasized that the measures aim to maintain safety and order amid the ongoing security concerns.

The flight reductions stem from heightened Israeli security measures in response to Iranian missile threats. Authorities are limiting outbound flights to one per hour and have called for partial airspace closures, affecting thousands of travelers across multiple international routes. The move reflects Israel’s broader efforts to safeguard civilians and critical infrastructure while maintaining essential international connections.

Passengers are advised to monitor EL AL communications for updates on schedule changes and to plan travel accordingly. The airline is coordinating closely with government authorities to implement the restrictions while minimizing disruptions. Officials stress that the measures are temporary and will be adjusted as security conditions evolve.