Since the start of the recent escalations between Israel and Iran, Israel's airspace was closed and flights to and from the Jewish state were suspended. El Al, Arkia, and Israir moved some of their planes to Cyprus.

The aviation industry estimates that by Monday, around 100,000 Israelis will have had their flights to Israel canceled since Thursday night, with that number growing by over 20,000 each day. 

Although Israel is often compared to an island, there are other ways to leave or return than by air. It won't be cheap, but even a few unexpected nights in Europe aren't cheap, and when flights come back, there will be heavy demand. 

How you can leave and enter Israel without flights

Sailing and flying from Cyprus (Larnaca): 

It's possible to book passage on a ship to Larnaca in Cyprus. The trip lasts 20-30 hours, depending on the type of ship. 

Cruises can cost hundreds of euros per person, but there are smaller ships from Herzliya, Tel Aviv, or Ashkelon that cost several thousands per person. 

Arkia's plane (credit: PR)
Arkia's plane (credit: PR)
A flight from Larnaca to Europe will cost around a few hundred more euros, depending on your destination, but there are flights available. 

Flights via Jordan (Aqaba or Amman):

Jordan also closed its airspace Thursday night and even participated in intercepting drones launched from Iran. However, its airspace has since been reopened. 

You can travel to Jordan by the border crossings over the Jordan River near Beit She'an or Eilat to the airports in Amman and Aqaba, and from there fly to Europe and other destinations.

Security officials recommend traveling via Aqaba, which shortens the time you have to stay in Jordan. However, it requires leaving your car in Eilat and arranging travel over the border, or just taking a taxi at the cost of around NIS 1,350 because domestic flights in Israel have been suspended. A one-way flight from Aqaba to Larnaca on Royal Jordanian costs around 200 euros and a taxi from Aqaba airport to Eilat costs around $20.

Flights via Egypt (Sharm el-Sheikh): 

Another option is to go to the Sinai Desert via the Taba crossing and take a taxi for about $250 to the airport in Sharm el-Sheikh. 

A flight from there on EgyptAir to Larnaca will cost about $250 but will take five hours due to a layover in Cairo. 

Crossing all land border crossings will cost around NIS 200 per person in fees, regardless of whether it is to Egypt or Jordan.

However, the National Security Council has also warned Israelis not to spend time in the Sinai Desert or Jordan, as well as to update their medical insurance for travel.