Analysis: Tel Aviv Airport Experiences an 8% Decline in Flights Amidst Israel-Hamas War

Tel Aviv - Ben Gurion International Airport

Tel Aviv - Ben Gurion International Airport, known by its IATA code TLV, is a bustling hub in the Middle East, connecting Israel to the world. The airport has recently faced various challenges, including decreased flight operations due to the Israel and Hamas war.

Middle East tracked via RadarBox.com 

In this blog post, we will explore how TLV weathered a decrease of -8.58% in daily flights between October 10 and October 15, compared to the same period the previous year, and highlight the most active airlines, busiest city pairs, and aircraft utilization statistics.

Fluctuations Amidst Geopolitical Tensions

The period between October 10 and October 15 saw a notable -8.58% decrease in daily flights at TLV compared to the same time frame in the previous year.

Tel Aviv - Ben Gurion International Airport - Movement Stats

This decline can be attributed to the ongoing war with Hamas, which impacted the region's overall aviation operations. 

Most Active Airlines

Despite the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, several airlines remained actively engaged with TLV.

Most Active Airlines in Israel 

Here are the top airlines by average daily flights during this period:

1. EL AL Israel Airlines (LY/ELY): With an impressive 98 average daily flights, EL AL is a cornerstone of the airport's operations.

2. Turkish Airlines (TK/THY): Turkish Airlines maintained 31 average daily flights, underscoring the importance of connecting the Middle East and Europe.

3. Arkia Israeli Airlines (IZ/AIZ): Arkia contributed with 30 average daily flights, providing essential domestic and regional connections.

4. Israer Airlines (6H/ISR): With 25 average daily flights, Israer Airlines played a significant role in TLV's operations.

5. Wizz Air (W6/WZZ): This low-cost carrier offered 25 average daily flights, contributing to the airport's diverse network.

Busiest Airports

Tel Aviv (TLV) stood out as the busiest airport in the region, with a remarkable 508 average daily movements.

Busiest Airports in Israel

However, other airports in Israel also played vital roles, including Tel Aviv (SDV), Eilat (ETM), Haifa (HFA), and Rishon Lezion.

Busiest City Pairs

During this period, the busiest city pairs at TLV showcased the airport's critical role in connecting Israel with the world.

Busiest City Pairs in Israel

1. Tel Aviv (TLV) - Istanbul (IST) led the way with 13 average daily movements, emphasizing the importance of this route.

2. Eilat (ETM) - Tel Aviv (TLV) was next with 12 average daily movements, highlighting the significance of domestic travel.

3. Tel Aviv (TLV) - Athens (ATH) and Tel Aviv (TLV) - Dubai (DXB) both recorded 10 average daily movements. 

Middle East

And here's a look at the busiest airports and countries in the Middle East, where the skies are always buzzing with activity.

Busiest Airports

Busiest airports in the Middle East

1. Dubai International Airport (DXB / OMDB): Dubai International Airport is the busiest airport in the Middle East, with an impressive 1201 average daily movements. Situated in the heart of Dubai, this airport symbolizes the city's rapid growth and global connectivity.

2. King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah (JED/OEJN): Jeddah's King Abdulaziz International Airport follows closely with 696 average daily movements. It is a significant gateway for Hajj pilgrims and international travelers, connecting Saudi Arabia to the world.

3. Hamad International Airport, Doha (DOH / OTHH): Doha's Hamad International Airport boasts 694 average daily movements, playing a crucial role in connecting Qatar to various destinations worldwide. Its modern architecture mirrors the progressive spirit of Qatar.

4. King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh (RUH/OERK): Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport handles 659 average daily movements, serving as a critical hub for the capital city of Saudi Arabia. It stands as a testament to the country's economic prowess.

5. Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv (TLV/LLBG): Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport handles 508 average daily movements, serving as Israel's primary international airport. It is a vital link for both domestic and international travelers.

6. Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH/OMAA): Abu Dhabi International Airport, with 389 average daily movements, is a crucial aviation hub in the United Arab Emirates. It reflects the UAE's commitment to excellence in air travel.

7. Kuwait International Airport (KWI/OKKK): Kuwait International Airport manages 328 average daily movements, serving as a gateway to the rich cultural heritage of Kuwait. It is a testament to the country's historical significance and modern development.

8. King Fahd International Airport, Ad Dammam (DMM/OEDF): King Fahd International Airport in Ad Dammam handles 274 average daily movements, connecting the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia to global destinations. Its strategic location enhances the region's economic activities.

9. Sharjah International Airport (SHI/OMSJ): Sharjah International Airport, with 263 average daily movements, is a critical player in the UAE's aviation landscape. It bridges the gap between the emirates and is an essential hub for travelers.

10. Muscat International Airport (MCT / OOMS): with 262 average daily movements, Muscat International Airport acts as Oman's primary gateway to the world. Its architecture reflects Oman's rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.

Busiest Countries

Busiest countries in the Middle East

1. Saudi Arabia: With a staggering 2090 daily daily movements from its airports, Saudi Arabia is a dominant force in the Middle Eastern aviation sector.

2. United Arab Emirates: The United Arab Emirates closely follows with 2058 average daily movements, showcasing its position as a global aviation hub.

3. Qatar: Qatar, with 788 average daily movements, continues to expand its aviation capabilities, connecting the nation to various corners of the globe.

4. Israel: with 561 average daily movements, Israel is committed to fostering international connections through its airports.

5. Kuwait: Kuwait's 331 average daily movements highlight its significance in regional aviation.

6. Iran: with 306 average daily movements, Iran connects the Middle East to Central Asia and beyond.

7. Oman: with 288 average daily movements, Oman is a critical player in the Gulf region's aviation sector.

8. Bahrain: Bahrain's 251 average daily movements underscore its strategic location and economic importance.

9. Jordan and the West Bank: Jordan and the West Bank, with 231 average daily movements, act as vital hubs for travelers in the Levant region.

10. Iraq: Iraq, with 181 average daily movements, continues to strengthen its aviation infrastructure, connecting the nation to the global community.