Arkia Launches Athens-Taba Flights Amid Israel Airspace Closure

Israeli airline Arkia has initiated special round-trip flights between Athens, Greece, and Taba, Egypt, to facilitate travel for those affected by the closure of Israeli airspace. This move comes after Israel conducted strikes on Iran, prompting the airspace closure and widespread flight cancellations.

Bypassing Airspace Restrictions

The new route, operated in cooperation with Electra Airways, allows passengers to combine air travel with an overland crossing into Israel via the Taba border crossing. Alternatively, travelers can depart Israel through Taba for onward flights to Athens. Flights are operated using Airbus A320 aircraft.

Flight Details and Costs

As of March 1, 2026, Arkia is offering flights on the following schedule:

• March 1, 2026: Athens to Taba (3E9214) – 12:50 p.m. / Taba to Athens (3E9215) – 4:40 p.m.
• March 2, 2026: Athens to Taba (3E9212) – 5:00 a.m. / Taba to Athens (3E9215) – 8:50 a.m. / Athens to Taba (3E9214) – 12:50 p.m.

One-way fares start at $359, excluding baggage fees. A carry-on trolley costs an additional $20, while a checked suitcase is priced at $45.

Ticket Availability

Tickets for these special flights are available for purchase exclusively through Arkia’s website and authorized travel agents.

Alternative Routes

Travelers are also exploring alternative land crossings through Egypt and Jordan. Flights from Aqaba, Jordan, to Athens are also being offered by Arkia. A cruise ship service from Haifa, Israel, to Limassol, Cyprus, is also being arranged, with priority given to foreign tourists.

Source: Ynetnews, The Times of Israel, The Yeshiva World, ChabadInfo