Ryanair is reconsidering its return to Israel, citing ongoing military and geopolitical instability as well as operational frustrations. The Irish low-cost airline had planned to resume flights to and from Israel toward the end of October. However, recent remarks from Michael O'Leary, CEO of Ryanair Group, suggest that these plans are uncertain.
O'Leary expressed dissatisfaction with Israeli airport authorities, specifically regarding the closure of Tel Aviv’s dedicated low-cost terminal. He indicated that if Ryanair were to return, it would have to operate from a more expensive terminal. According to comments reported by The Independent and Travel Tomorrow, O'Leary stated at Ryanair's AGM:
"There’s a real possibility that we won’t bother going back to Israel. Unless the Israelis get their act together and stop messing us around, frankly, we have far more growth elsewhere in Europe. This is going to be an ongoing issue for all airlines and all European citizens for the next number of years. The risk is one of continuous disruption, rather than of safety."