Virgin Atlantic has permanently canceled its direct flights between London Heathrow and Tel Aviv, a decision confirmed on April 28, 2025.
The airline, celebrated for its premium service and extensive network, halted the route in October 2023 amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. The airline had initially intended to resume flight operations in October 2025.
After a recent re-evaluation of the situation, Virgin Atlantic opted to discontinue the service due to a persistent shortage of aircraft.
Codeshare Maintained with EL AL
An airline spokesperson told Jewish News, “After careful consideration, we have taken the difficult decision to cancel our services between London Heathrow and Tel Aviv.” The comment suggests the complexity of the choice by the carrier.
Virgin Atlantic originally began flying to Tel Aviv on September 25, 2019. It launched daily flights from London Heathrow to Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport with an Airbus A330-300.
The service was then suspended in October 2023 due to tensions arising from the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Though Virgin Atlantic will no longer fly its own planes to Israel, the airline remains dedicated to serving Israeli travelers through its present codeshare agreement with EL AL, Israel’s national carrier.
The spokesperson emphasized, “We will continue to serve Tel Aviv as the only UK airline with a partnership with EL AL on services between Tel Aviv Ben Gurion and London Heathrow.”
This collaboration provides up to four daily flights, ensuring seamless travel options. Passengers can also connect to major U.S. cities like New York, Miami, Las Vegas, and Atlanta. They are also able to access UK destinations through this partnership.
For travelers affected by the cancellation, Virgin Atlantic is prioritizing a smooth transition. Customers who booked directly with the airline will receive email notifications starting May 10, 2025, detailing refund or rebooking options, including flights operated by EL AL.
The airline’s website offers a user-friendly portal for managing these changes. Those who booked via travel agents should reach out to their providers for support.
Summary
The cancellation highlights broader aviation challenges, including fleet limitations and geopolitical tensions. By leaning on its EL AL partnership, Virgin Atlantic ensures Israeli travelers retain access to its network.
For those planning trips, checking the airline’s website or contacting customer service is the best way to stay updated.
This shift underscores the need for adaptability in today’s unpredictable travel environment, where strategic partnerships play a vital role in maintaining connectivity.
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