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Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines have officially relinquished their landing and takeoff slots at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, marking a formal end to future operations in Israel.
According to Türkiye daily, the move comes after nearly 18 months of suspended flights following the escalation in Gaza that began on October 7, 2023. Both airlines had previously halted services to Israel but retained their slot rights, keeping the possibility open for future operations.
Flight slots are essential permits allowing airlines to land and depart from a given airport within set timeframes. They also provide access to airport services and infrastructure.
Turkish Airlines had been the fourth-largest airline operating at Ben Gurion Airport, with Pegasus ranking 12th. Relinquishing these slots signifies that neither carrier plans to resume flights to Israel.
The development follows Virgin Atlantic Airways’ recent decision to suspend its direct London–Tel Aviv route, highlighting a growing trend in aviation suspensions related to regional instability.
In addition to the aviation developments, Türkiye has fully closed its customs system to Israel. As of May 2, 2024, no customs transactions are being processed for goods bound for Israel.
Data from Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade shows that by halting trade, Ankara has foregone significant export revenues—approximately $9.5 billion in 2022 and $7 billion in 2023.
The coordinated actions in aviation and trade reflect the broader diplomatic and economic distancing between Türkiye and Israel. According to Türkiye daily, the move by Turkish carriers indicates a solidified position amid ongoing regional tensions, with flight and trade access now fully severed.
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