German-Israeli repatriation flight makes a second landing
Jetting Home: Germans across Israel and Iran find their way back
Germany's residents stranded due to the ongoing regional turmoil in Israel and Iran have some options up their sleeves, with special evacuation flights and alternative exit routes as options.
Evacuation Flights: Israel and Iran's Exodus
Germany is throwing its hat in the ring by arranging special charter flights to evacuate its citizens from Israel and Iran. These flights will transpire through Amman, the capital of Jordan, serving as a stopover for German citizens seeking to return home[1][4].
As of mid-June 2025, two such evacuation flights have taken place, enabling approximately 519 German citizens to leave the area [4].
Germans who have registered themselves on the Elefand crisis preparedness list have been briefed about these evacuation options and are receiving notifications, including flight assignments subject to approval by government authorities[1].
German authorities advise evacuees to be prepared for potential extended stays throughout the process and to retain receipts for accommodation or related expenditures, which may be reimbursable under applicable legal guidelines[1].
The Airspace Maze: Commercial Flights in the Fog of War
Many major airlines, including Lufthansa, Emirates, Air France, United, and Delta, have halted flights to the Middle East due to the conflict, disrupting direct commercial travel options[1][2].
International airlines have suspended flights to Israel until at least September 2025, given the threats of missile attacks on Ben Gurion Airport[2].
The volatile airspace situation means that the charter flights arranged by Germany and other countries are reliant on clearance from Israeli and regional authorities, as well as the reopening of secure flight corridors[1][3].
Booking and Registration: Roll Call for the Returning
Germans stranded in Israel or Iran must register on the Elefand crisis preparedness platform (a government registry for nationals abroad) to be kept in the loop about evacuation flights and receive personalized information[1].
Once registered, citizens will receive updates via email or SMS about their evacuation status and specific flight details as government approvals come through[1].
Exit Strategies: Onwards and Upwards
For those unable to travel via direct commercial flights, land routes are being used to reach neighboring countries with safer exit options:
- Marketed as a viable alternate, citizens are being encouraged to travel by land to Amman, Jordan, where evacuation charter flights are operating[1][4].
- Other European countries are shuttling their nationals by bus from Israel to neighboring countries like Jordan, utilizing these gains as a possible practical route for Germans stranded in Israel[1].
Countries like Cyprus and Jordan are collaborating in transit and evacuation efforts[1].
Take the plunge and book your much-needed ticket home today! Don't let this crisis keep you rooted where you don't want to be! Reach out to the German authorities and get registered on the Elefand platform for a seamless journey back to familiar shores.
- In the midst of the unfolding political tension, Germany is offering special charter flights as an exit strategy for its citizens stranded in Israel and Iran, with Jordan's capital, Amman, serving as a transit hub for these flights [1][4].
- Amidst the halted commercial flights due to the regional turmoil, Germans stranded in Israel or Iran are advised to register on the Elefand crisis preparedness platform to stay updated about evacuation flights and receive personalized flight details as approvals are granted [1].
