Air Canada makes a bold comeback to Israel's skies—Here’s what you need to know

Air Canada is officially returning to Israel's skies after a lengthy hiatus, with flights set to resume on June 8. The airline suspended its operations in October due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, leaving many travelers to explore alternative routes through European hubs. Air Canada briefly attempted to restart services earlier last year, but those plans were cut short following Iran’s attacks last April. Now, the airline is committing to a full return, with plans for four weekly flights between Toronto and Ben Gurion Airport. Montreal will follow suit in August, offering a weekly connection to Israel.

This marks the first direct service between Canada and Israel since El Al’s withdrawal from the route in 2022. Air Canada emphasized its long-standing commitment to the Canada-Israel route, which the airline has operated for 30 years. The company expressed optimism about expanding services in the future as conditions improve, saying, “We look forward to resuming flights and even expanding them as conditions allow.”

With a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas holding, air travel from North America is gradually returning to Israel. United Airlines is set to resume service on March 15, and Delta is aiming for a return by April 1. According to the Israel Airport Authority (IAA), around one-third of the 80 airlines that previously serviced Tel Aviv before the Gaza war have resumed operations. In addition to major American carriers, European airlines like Air France, British Airways, and Lufthansa have restarted services. Low-cost carrier Wizz Air has also expanded its network, adding seven new destinations, including Abu Dhabi, Budapest, and Warsaw.

As Israel navigates the path to recovery, the return of Air Canada signals a positive step forward for international travel to the region.