Published March 16, 2026 4:32 PM IST

Below is the latest information regarding outbound travel from Israel for American citizens. Read on to learn about several important clarifications from Chaim V’Chessed.

State Department Flights Suspended; El Al Evacuation Flights

The U.S. State Department has suspended its special evacuation flights following its arrangement with El Al. In response, El Al has increased its planned flights to the United States from six to eight.

These flights are intended for passengers with existing El Al tickets, as well as those with no tickets or tickets on other airlines. At this time, however, only El Al ticket holders have been placed on these flights. Non–El Al passengers have not yet been successfully ticketed, though El Al has reportedly committed to the U.S. State Department to accommodate all U.S. citizens.
All passengers seeking to travel are strongly encouraged to register as soon as possible using this link.

Important Clarifications

Ticket Eligibility
Primarily, passengers holding a one-way ticket to the United States, or those on the final leg of an itinerary returning to the United States, are being placed on these flights. Often, passengers with round-trip tickets originating in Tel Aviv, traveling to the U.S., and returning to Israel are not being accommodated. The chief purpose of these flights is to return American citizens who are currently stranded in Israel – not to provide round-trip travel. Passengers in this situation who have purchased tickets from travel agencies should reach out to their travel agent for assistance.

Family Members of U.S. Citizens
El Al has stated that only passengers holding U.S. passports may fly on the so-called “rescue flights.” There remains some uncertainty regarding spouses and family members of U.S. citizens who are not themselves American citizens. Based on current information, those who can demonstrate legal residence in the United States with their American family members will likely be permitted to travel. Individuals without clear proof of U.S. residency may not be allowed to board.

Additional Flight Options
Arkia, Israir and Air Haifa continue to operate flights to various destinations. In some cases, experienced travel agents may be able to secure seats for passengers, though availability is severely limited and fares are often high.

The Igud/Eretz HaKodesh flights from Taba began operating today, with two additional flights scheduled later this week. These flights are already fully or nearly fully booked. Separately, Lalechet continues to operate flights from Sharm al Sheikh.

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Chaim V’Chessed continues to monitor developments closely and provide updates as new information becomes available. Follow www.chaimvchessed.com or subscribe to receive our updates.