The option to book government-assisted repatriation flights from Israel ends today (Wednesday) amid heightened military action in the region.
The decision was revealed by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) as Virgin Atlantic extended the suspension of its flights between London and Tel Aviv by a week when one of two services is set to resume on October 27.
British Airways also put back plans to restart Tel Aviv flights from today until October 23.
The suspension of EasyJet flights will be in place until October 21 and Ryanair to points in Europe until October 20.
The latest update from El Al on Monday said flights were still operating but with possible changes to departure times and operations from Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv in accordance with the instructions of Israeli military forces.
The FCDO last night announced that the booking portal for government-supported commercial flights will close at midday Israel time today – 10am in the UK.
“Any British national wishing to depart on an HMG assisted flight should make a booking before this time,” the latest travel advice said.
“Travel within or out of Israel is at your own risk. You are encouraged to follow the advice of local authorities, for example on which routes are open or when to take shelter, and monitor this travel advice, which is regularly updated.”
The first government repatriation flights started last Friday to the UK and Cyprus.
The FCDO also urged British nationals in Lebanon to consider whether they need to remain in the country and, if not, leave by commercial means while they are still available. Britons in Lebanon should also register their presence with the FCDO with up to date contact details.
The updated travel advice said: “FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Lebanon since the outbreak of large-scale conflict between Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories on 7 October.
“There are ongoing mortar, artillery exchanges and airstrikes in south Lebanon, on the border with Israel. Tensions are high and events could escalate with little warning, which could affect or limit exit routes out of Lebanon.
“Events in Lebanon are fast moving. The situation has potential to deteriorate quickly and with no warning.
“Commercial routes out of Lebanon could be severely disrupted or cancelled at short notice and roads across the country could be closed.
“Check our travel advice for any neighbouring country that you are planning to travel to or through.
“Due to the security situation, family members of staff at the British Embassy have been temporarily withdrawn. The Embassy continues with essential work including services to British nationals.”
Tensions between Israel and and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah have heightened since the the October 7 Hamas attack that left 1,300 Israelis dead, triggering reprisals from the Israeli government.