Jordan Nixes Arkia Flights From Aqaba Airport

Hundreds of Israeli travelers remain stranded at Aqaba Airport following an unexpected decision by Jordanian authorities to halt flights operated by Arkia Airlines. The sudden policy change has led to the immediate cancellation of many Israeli flights scheduled to depart from the Jordanian city to international destinations. Arkia Airlines announced on Sunday, March 29, 2026, that several flights planned for departure from Aqaba to Europe and Bangkok have been canceled due to the regulatory shift.

Originally reported by Israel – Latest – Google News on 2026-03-29 09:45:00 under the headline “Jordanian authorities nix Arkia Aqaba flights – Globes – Israel Business News”, the development marks a significant disruption for passengers who had routed their travel through the southern Jordanian port city. The cancellations have left hundreds of Israeli travelers stranded at Aqaba Airport without immediate recourse. According to the airline, Jordanian authorities are currently not granting approval for certain flights operated with European aircraft.

Passenger Conditions and Testimony

The decision came as a surprise in Israel, prompting officials from both the Israeli security and aviation sectors to engage with their Jordanian counterparts to seek an immediate solution. Meanwhile, conditions on the ground have been described as difficult by those affected. One of the Israelis stranded in Aqaba described the situation to Channel 12 News in a statement released during the disruption.

The passenger stated that there is no Arkia representative present at the location, nor is there any other Israeli personnel available to assist. The individual reported that there is no water or food provided to the waiting travelers. People are sitting on the floor in complete despair and children are crying amidst the uncertainty of the cancellations.

The original flight involved was destined for Bangkok and had already been delayed several times prior to the cancellation. Many passengers have lost thousands of dollars on connecting flights and hotel bookings due to the sudden halt. The traveler noted that they contacted the Foreign Ministry’s operations center regarding the crisis. However, the response indicated that the ministry does not know how to help at this time.

Airline Statement and Regulatory Issues

Arkia explained the rationale behind the cancellations in a formal statement issued on Sunday. The airline cited the sudden and unexpected policy change by Jordanian authorities as the primary cause. The carrier noted the absence of real-time regulatory approvals required to operate the scheduled services.

As a result of these regulatory hurdles, Arkia is forced to cancel some flights from this airport until further notice. The airline indicated that several flights scheduled to depart from Aqaba Airport are not authorized to operate under the new constraints. This suspension remains in effect pending further notification from the authorities.

Context of Ben Gurion Restrictions

The shift of operations to Aqaba occurred against a backdrop of tighter restrictions imposed on flights at Ben Gurion Airport. Israeli carrier Arkia Airlines had announced previously that following the latest restrictions imposed on flights at Ben Gurion airport, due to increased security or regulatory pressures, operations were being adjusted. Israeli airlines must decide which destinations and passengers take priority during this period of limited capacity.

carriers are shifting flights to Taba and Aqaba to maintain some level of service. Reports indicate chaos at Ben Gurion Airport after tighter restrictions were introduced recently. Israeli airlines are navigating these constraints by utilizing alternative departure points in the region.

Broader Aviation Industry Impact

The restrictions affecting Israeli aviation extend beyond Arkia and the situation in Jordan. Reports indicate that Israel’s El Al Airlines is set to operate at 5% of capacity after government limits traffic. This significant reduction underscores the severity of the restrictions placed on national carriers during this period.

Israel has issued a notice regarding the duration of the disruptions at the main international hub. Ben-Gurion Airport flights are likely restricted until at least April 16, according to reports from The Jerusalem Post. This timeline suggests that the displacement of flights to alternative locations like Aqaba may continue for several weeks.

Ami Magazine has noted the broader context of flying people safely in precarious times, highlighting the challenges faced by the industry. The convergence of restrictions at Ben Gurion and the sudden policy change in Jordan has created a complex environment for Israeli travelers seeking to depart the region.

Regional Relations and Related Developments

The flight cancellations occur amidst a mix of cooperative and contentious developments between Israel and Jordan. Related articles noted in the coverage include reports that Israel presents joint projects with Jordan. However, other issues such as a crude oil leak in Jordan’s Aqaba could harm Eilat have also been highlighted in recent news cycles.

there have been discussions regarding an Israeli Airport Near Eilat being too close to Aqaba, according to Jordanian perspectives. These underlying tensions and logistical overlaps may contribute to the regulatory environment affecting cross-border aviation. The current situation leaves hundreds of passengers in limbo while officials work toward a resolution.