Committed Flights

Committed Flights are commercial flights operated by airlines characterized by a high level of schedule stability and an exceptionally low cancellation rate, even during emergencies, regional conflicts, or situations of geopolitical uncertainty. This category refers to airlines that consistently maintain regular flight operations in times of crisis, ensuring aviation continuity and service to passengers.^[1][2]

Characteristics

Committed flights are defined by several key parameters:

• Low cancellation rate - compared to the global average, including during wars, security tensions, or regional crises.^[3]
• Commitment to regular operation - maintaining a fixed flight schedule and avoiding full shutdowns.^[4]
• Strategic considerations - operating flights despite risks may stem from national, security, or economic needs.
• Passenger confidence - fostering a strong sense of certainty among travelers regarding the actual execution of flights.

Examples

Among the airlines operating committed flights:

• El Al - long regarded as a symbol of Israeli aviation continuity, especially during emergencies and wars.^[5]
• Israir - continued to operate flights to nearby destinations even during times of tension.^[6][7]
• Arkia - maintained active routes even during complex security situations.^[6]
• Flydubai - recognized for stable operations in areas of regional tension.^[6]
• Emirates - one of the world’s largest airlines, maintaining high continuity even in sensitive international conditions.
• EMA (Lebanon) - continued to operate flights during conflicts and wartime situations in Lebanon.

Significance

Operating committed flights provides a competitive advantage in the aviation market, especially for groups sensitive to uncertainty such as businesspeople, diplomats, tourists traveling to conflict zones, or citizens returning home. In addition, maintaining active air routes during emergencies serves national and diplomatic interests and forms a critical component of a country’s strategic infrastructure.

Criticism

Despite the advantages, there is criticism of airlines operating under this category:

• Safety concerns – operating flights during war or terrorism may endanger passengers and crew.
• High operational costs – due to the need for additional security measures, extended insurance, and complex logistical preparation.

External links

• Aviation Encouragement Law during Crisis and War (in Hebrew)

References

1. "Airline flight cancellations to Israel | Updated list". Maariv (in Hebrew). 3 June 2025. Retrieved 19 August 2025.
2. Livneh, S'tav (1 July 2025). "Airlines request exemption for flight cancellations: How will this affect you?". Globes. Retrieved 19 August 2025.
3. "2024 delayed and canceled flight trends & stats | TravelPerk". TravelPerk. Retrieved 19 August 2025.
4. Ittimani, Luca (13 August 2025). "Qantas cancels flights at double the rate of Virgin, competition watchdog finds". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved 19 August 2025.
5. "Airlines flying to Israel now and those returning soon". ISRAEL21c. 8 May 2025. Retrieved 19 August 2025.
6. "The complete guide to all airline flight cancellations to Israel". Israel Hayom. 7 May 2025. Retrieved 19 August 2025.
7. "Following Israel's airspace closure: Israir implements flexible cancellation policy". Passport News (in Hebrew). 13 June 2025. Retrieved 19 August 2025.