WATCH: 'Excitement in the air' - Visiting Israel with a purpose

Kayla Sprague reports for ALL ISRAEL NEWS from Ben-Gurion International Airport about the return of international flights and tourists to Israel, saying, “There's a palpable sense of purpose and excitement in the air.”  

Families are being reunited, business trips are making a comeback, and those coming for spiritual reasons are finding it well worth the visit.

Describing how it feels to be reunited with family, Pam from Canada said she was, “Overjoyed, overwhelmed, so thankful that airlines are starting to fly again.” When asked what she’d say to those wanting to visit but feeling intimidated by the news coming from Israel, she urged ALL ISRAEL NEWS listeners, “Absolutely come. We love you, we need you. Everyone here is about to welcome you with open arms, as they always do in Israel. It's the best place on earth.” 

Sprague explains, “What we're seeing here is more than just the resumption of tourism. Particularly following the Gaza ceasefire deal, it's a powerful statement of solidarity with Israel. Israeli companies like El Al, Arkea and Israel Air are maintaining their regular schedules, while international carriers like Fly Dubai, Ethiopian Airlines and several European airlines are expanding their services to Tel Aviv once again.” 

A business man from Kazakhstan told Sprague that he enjoys going to Tel Aviv and visiting the restaurants and other attractions, insisting, “It's safe just come here… I didn't feel anything about, you know, being unsafe or secure so [people] definitely should come.” His company allowed him to choose whether or not to travel to Israel but he said he feels safe all the time and likes to come.

Lufthansa announced their airlines will resume flights to Tel Aviv this month in February. Looking ahead into 2025, major U.S. and international airlines like Delta, Air India, British Airways and others are also accepting bookings for the Spring, and tour operators are reporting a growing interest in holding land-based experiences once again. 

A clergyman responsible for overseeing a monastery on his first trip back to Israel since the war began told Sprague, “I'm very happy to come right now…. This is the first time and I'm not afraid at all, so I would encourage people to come, yes.“

But there's something deeper happening here, says Sprague.

“There is a unique spiritual atmosphere in Israel right now that visitors are experiencing as they come. I've been speaking with travelers not just this week but over the past year and they've shared fascinating experiences. Israelis are more open than ever before in engaging with conversations about faith in God, not just casual ones but profound exchanges that often lead to deeper discussions about purpose, destiny and the role of God in today's world.” 

Many have said they came to bless Israel but found themselves being blessed in return in unexpected ways. 

“Every arriving flight brings not just visitors, but partners in Israel's journey. Tour operators are adapting their programs to offer even more meaningful experiences, combining traditional biblical sites with opportunities to connect with local communities and understand the modern miracle that is Israel and what has happened this year.”

For those planning a visit, Israel now has a new system similar to the American ESTA form (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to ensure your entry is authorized even before you set off.

Those from visa-exempt countries must complete the online form at least 72 hours before their arrival in order to make entry into Israel smooth and easy. 

“If there was ever a time to stand with the Jewish people and show them your heart, now is the time,” says Sprague.

“Your presence here means more than just tourism. It's a powerful statement of solidarity and support. And while you're blessing Israel with your visit, your spirit will be ministered to as you witness what God is doing in this amazing land.”