Dutch airline KLM retracted plans to resume its daily Amsterdam-Tel Aviv route, the company announced on Wednesday.
Based on the current security situation and operational feasibility, we have decided not to resume our flights to Tel Aviv for the time being,” it said in a statement.
This comes less than 24 hours after the airline announced it planned to resume the route with an alternate schedule on Wednesday, following a four-day hiatus due to regional security concerns.
The reversal comes amid increasing fears of escalation of conflict with Iran, with Tehran warning of “immediate” and “unprecedented” attacks on Tel Aviv in the event of US strikes.
“At all times, KLM prioritizes the safety of passengers and crew in the execution of its operations. Selecting safe and optimal routes is a standard part of our daily practice,” the airline said.
It also announced that flights are operating to other destinations in the region, including Riyadh and Dammam, with flights to Dubai expected to resume on January 30.
Initial plans to resume flights included up-to-date situational assessments of regional geopolitics
The resumption of the route initially slated to begin on Wednesday was to be carried out with an up-to-date situational assessment and in accordance with geopolitical developments in the region.
“We continue to monitor the situation closely. As soon as it is safe and responsible to do so, we aim to offer our customers reliable connections again as quickly as possible,” said the airline.