5 May, New Delhi: There was a grave security scare on May 3, 2025, when the Air India Delhi-Tel Aviv flight was diverted in mid-air to Abu Dhabi after a missile strike on Israel’s Ben Gurion International airport
The missile strike, said to have been carried out by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, put the airport in a state of panic and forced a succession of flights to change course, including Air India’s AI139. There were dramatic scenes as plumes of smoke poured out of the airport, and passengers were heard screaming and making for cover.
In a statement, Air India stated that the flight had been diverted in a safe way and that all passengers and crew members are safe. The airline stated that the flight had had a normal landing in Abu Dhabi and would be returning to Delhi shortly. As a result of the deteriorating security environment, Air India temporarily suspended all operations to and from Tel Aviv till May 6, 2025. In addition, the airline also facilitated its ground staff to assist in making alternative journey and stay plans for passengers.
The missile attack was reported to have been carried out in solidarity with Palestinians as the war in Gaza continued. The assault caused Israel’s biggest international airport to be shut down temporarily for nearly an hour, bringing air, road, and rail traffic to a standstill. Footage broadcast by Israeli television showed scenes of chaos at the airport with smoke hanging in the air and panicked passengers running for shelter.
Israeli officials responded sternly to the attack. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Israel would retaliate with all its might. “Whoever harms us will be punished sevenfold,” he pledged, threatening severe consequences for the attackers. As a precautionary step, thousands of Israeli reserve troops are being called up, and military action in Gaza is being increased. The attack occurred hours before the Israeli Cabinet was scheduled to vote on expanding its military campaign in Gaza.
The situation continues to remain sensitive, and global airlines are following the situation with interest in the region. Air India’s prompt action to ensure the safety of its passengers has been widely appreciated, yet the incident points to the rising risks involved in flying over war zones.
Israeli officials responded strongly to the assault. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Israel will retaliate with all its force. “Whoever wounds us will be punished sevenfold,” he said, vowing severe punishment to those who carried out the attack. As a precautionary move, thousands of Israeli reserve troops are being called in, and military action in Gaza is being intensified. The attack was hours before the Israeli Cabinet had voted on expanding its Gaza military campaign.
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