Air India Flight Diverted to Abu Dhabi After Missile Strike Near Tel Aviv Airport
In a significant development on Sunday, May 4, 2025, Air India flight AI139, en route from Delhi to Tel Aviv, was diverted to Abu Dhabi following a missile strike near Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport. The missile, reportedly launched by Houthi rebels from Yemen, landed near the airport, prompting immediate rerouting of flights and raising concerns about regional security.
Details of the Incident
According to flight tracking data from Flightradar24, Air India flight AI139 was in Jordanian airspace when authorities decided to divert it to Abu Dhabi. The decision was made in response to a missile strike that landed near Ben Gurion Airport, causing a temporary suspension of air traffic and heightened security measures. The missile, described by Houthi rebels as a hypersonic ballistic weapon, created a large crater near the airport but did not cause significant damage to airport infrastructure. However, the incident led to the cancellation of several flights, including Air India’s return flight from Tel Aviv to Delhi.
Impact on Air Travel
The missile strike caused widespread disruption at Ben Gurion Airport, with air, road, and rail traffic temporarily halted. Passengers faced delays and cancellations, and security measures were heightened across the region. Air India confirmed that flight AI139 would not be returning to Tel Aviv as scheduled and would instead return to Delhi from Abu Dhabi. The airline has assured passengers of full refunds and is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of its operations.
Regional Security Concerns
The missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport marks an escalation in the ongoing conflict involving Houthi rebels, who have previously targeted Israeli and allied interests in the region. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, stating it was in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Israeli officials condemned the strike and vowed retaliation, with Defense Minister Israel Katz warning of severe consequences. The United States has also conducted military operations against Houthi targets in Yemen since March to deter further attacks on Israeli and international interests.
Air India’s Response
In response to the incident, Air India has canceled its return flight from Tel Aviv to Delhi for Sunday and is offering full refunds to passengers with confirmed bookings. The airline stated that the safety of its guests and crew remains its topmost priority and is continuously monitoring the situation. Air India operates five weekly flights to Tel Aviv and has previously suspended services to the city during periods of heightened regional tensions.
Conclusion
The diversion of Air India flight AI139 to Abu Dhabi following a missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport underscores the volatile security situation in the Middle East. While the immediate threat has been addressed, the incident highlights the challenges faced by international airlines operating in the region. Passengers are advised to stay informed about travel advisories and to contact their airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules.