Direct flights to Moscow are set to see a notable increase as El Al from Israel, Vietnam Airlines, and Turkmenistan Airlines plan to restart their services in May 2025. This move suggests a gradual recovery for air travel to Russia, with the reinstated routes aiming to bolster tourism, trade, and cultural interactions, all while keeping passenger safety top of mind.
El Al: Tel Aviv and Moscow Reconnected
El Al, the national airline of Israel, is resuming regular direct flights between Tel Aviv and Moscow starting May 1, 2025. This follows a suspension that began in December 2024. As the airline's press service noted, "Starting from May 1, we return to servicing flights on the Tel Aviv-Moscow line.” This decision follows what seems to be extensive talks with Israeli authorities to make sure passenger transportation is safe. El Al plans to run seven weekly direct flights on this route, offering daily connections to handle the demand.
It follows a period of uncertainty. Back in April 2025, the Israeli Ministry of Tourism suggested that flights between the two cities would restart, which is seen as a step towards travel normalization, supporting tourism and business between Israel and Russia.
Turkmenistan Airlines: Moscow and Kazan Routes Back
Turkmenistan Airlines, the main airline of Turkmenistan, resumed direct flights from Ashgabat to Moscow on May 2, 2025. The flights operate twice weekly, on Mondays and Fridays, using Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Also, they launched direct flights between Ashgabat and Kazan beginning May 1. Domodedovo Airport's press service shared the news on Telegram, signaling the end of a break in service that started in December 2024 and was later extended into spring 2025.
The resumption here is expected to strengthen travel and economic ties between Turkmenistan and Russia, providing reliable options for passengers. In most cases, this fosters opportunities for trade and cultural engagement.
Vietnam Airlines Returns After a Three-Year Pause
After a three-year break, Vietnam Airlines is set to restart direct flights between Hanoi and Moscow on May 8, 2025. Flights will be operated on Tuesdays and Thursdays using Boeing 787 aircraft. There are plans to perhaps increase to three direct flights a week starting in July 2026. The airline emphasized that the revival of the route will provide what they consider to be “safer and more convenient travel options” for tourists. Of course, it should also promote investment, trade, and cultural exchanges between Vietnam and Russia.
The reinstatement suggests growing confidence in the route’s success and lines up with Vietnam Airlines’ plan to expand its international network, especially in markets with good potential for cooperation.
Toward Enhanced Global Connectivity
The restart of flights by El Al, Turkmenistan Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines is a significant moment for Russia’s aviation and tourism sectors, which have faced challenges due to geopolitical and security concerns. These routes should allow for easier travel, support economic partnerships, and help cultural exchanges. By putting safety first and using modern aircraft, the airlines are looking to rebuild trust and meet passenger needs.
As international travel keeps recovering, the return of these direct flights highlights a trend of cautious optimism, with airlines and authorities working together to restore connections while addressing safety and operational concerns.
