Ryanair says “might not bother returning to Israel” even after war on Gaza ends

Ryanair, Europe’s largest low-cost carrier, has signaled it may permanently withdraw from the ‘Israeli’ market, even after the war on Gaza concludes.

Group Chief Executive Michael O'Leary stated there is a “real possibility” the airline "won't bother going back to Israel" when the war ends.

He made the comments to journalists in Dublin, citing a dispute with the ‘Israel’ Airports Authority (IAA) and a feeling of being "messed around" by the ‘Israeli’ authorities.

The core issue stems from the airline's need for the low-cost Terminal 1 at Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), which is crucial for its business model.

During periods of heightened security, the IAA closed Terminal 1, forcing low-cost carriers to use the more expensive Terminal 3.

While Terminal 1 has since reopened, O'Leary's remarks indicate the airline has additional grievances against the IAA.

In an ultimatum, O'Leary was quoted as saying, "Unless the Israelis kind of get their act together and stop messing us around, frankly, we have far more growth elsewhere in Europe".

This latest comment is part of a series of frustrations O'Leary has expressed over the past two years, having stated in May that he was "losing patience" with the security disruptions and would prefer to "divert planes to other, safer destinations".

Ryanair's position contrasts with that of other major international carriers, such as United, Delta, and Lufthansa, which have either resumed or are planning to resume flights to ‘Israel’.

However, Ryanair is not alone among low-cost carriers; its main competitor easyJet has also extended its flight suspension until the spring of 2026.