Tens of thousands of Israelis stranded abroad due to the closure of Israel’s airspace amid the conflict with Iran are converging on Cyprus, the nearest European Union country, as a key transit point for returning home.
Israeli airlines, including El Al, Arkia, and Israir, have received government permission to operate limited rescue flights from Cyprus’ Larnaca airport, alongside other European cities.
El Al plans to run return flights from Larnaca on Wednesday exclusively for passengers with cancelled tickets, while no outbound flights from Israel will operate for now.
Arkia and Israir also announced plans to bring back Israelis from Cyprus and other nearby locations.
The 50-minute flight from Larnaca to Tel Aviv offers a vital connection as many foreign carriers have cancelled flights amid the escalating war.
In addition to air travel, private sea crossings from Israel to Cyprus have surged.
Israeli daily Haaretz reports the marina in Herzliya, north of Tel Aviv, has turned into an informal travel hub, with around 100 people seeking yachts to reach Cyprus, and social media groups indicating hundreds more planning sea departures.
Many travellers cited fear of missile attacks due to rising tensions with Iran.
Cruise operator Mano Maritime said its “Crown Iris” ship will make two crossings from Cyprus to Israel’s port of Haifa.
Sea trip prices range from 2,500 to 6,000 shekels ($713 to $1,711), depending on yacht type and comfort level.
El Al reported over 60,000 passengers registered online within 90 minutes of opening a portal for repatriation flights.
