Scandinavian Airlines resumes flights to Israel after nine years

Scandinavian Airlines, the national airline of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, announced that it will return to Israel this fall, marking the first time since it ceased operations in 2016. The airline will restart its service from Copenhagen to Tel Aviv starting on October 26, 2023. This return signifies a broader trend of international airlines reestablishing routes to Israel, with various other carriers also planning to resume their services, emphasizing the recovery of the Israeli aviation sector. On August 24, 2025, the Israel Airports Authority reported that approximately 92,000 passengers traveled through Ben-Gurion International Airport, marking a notable increase in air traffic. This resurgence comes in the wake of significant geopolitical developments and the need for economic recovery, which has led to a reinforcement of air travel connections. Mark Feldman, CEO of Jerusalem’s Ziontours, praised SAS's decision, remarking that such moves highlight the prioritization of economic considerations in the tourism sector over political factors. The announcement aligns with the reinstatement of flights by other international airlines, including Delta Air Lines, which is expected to restart its operations next month, and other airlines such as Air Canada, ITA Airways from Italy, British Airways, and Ryanair also set to resume flights in October. The lifting of travel restrictions and the growing number of foreign carriers resuming flights is indicative of Israel's improving position in global travel, and Ben-Gurion International Airport is once again becoming a crucial aviation hub. This trend not only aids the tourism industry but also facilitates more accessible travel for business and personal reasons, which is vital for the economic landscape as it continues to recover from previous disruptions, including the recent conflicts in the region. The steps taken by SAS and its counterparts reveal both consumer demand for travel to Israel and the airlines' acknowledgement of the country’s potential as a viable destination moving forward, regardless of the political climate. Overall, the return of Scandinavian Airlines to Israel marks a positive sign for the aviation industry and tourism sector, showcasing that although challenges remain, the determination to maintain and expand air travel routes is strong. This change is likely to have beneficial implications for the Israeli economy, particularly in tourism, as the influx of international travelers could lead to increased spending and further investments in the hospitality sector.