British Airways revealed this week its decision to prolong the pause on flights to key Middle East destinations through the end of the summer schedule period, extending at least until October 25, 2026.

The affected routes cover Tel Aviv along with Dubai, Bahrain, and Amman.

The carrier cited ongoing regional security concerns and challenges in securing a stable agreement with Iran as reasons for maintaining the route freeze during peak travel months.

Separately, British Airways intends to restart services to Doha in Qatar and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia during August.

Qatar Airways maintains a 25 percent ownership in British Airways parent International Airlines Group, which also controls Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Vueling.

Additional carriers reduce Middle East flights following Iran conflict

British Airways is among several airlines scaling back Middle East operations. Multiple major carriers have recently extended their flight suspensions across the region.

Delta Air Lines will delay resumption of the New York-Tel Aviv route until after September 6. The Atlanta service remains halted until December 18, and the planned Boston-Tel Aviv launch is postponed without a revised date.

American Airlines has extended its Tel Aviv and Doha cancellations through January 2027, marking an absence from the Israeli market exceeding three years upon return.

United Airlines aims to restart Tel Aviv and Dubai flights on September 7, subject to potential adjustments.

In contrast to the reductions, Etihad Airways from Abu Dhabi currently runs two daily flights to Israel and will expand significantly. From June 15 it plans up to six daily services between Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv.