El Al cancels planned Vietnam flights due to security issues

El Al Airlines announced Thursday it is scrapping plans to launch service to Vietnam this fall, citing security concerns. The decision reverses the airline's announcement from six months earlier that it would begin flights to Hanoi in October after receiving preliminary security approval.

Israeli security officials operating under directives from the Israeli Security Agency determined they could not authorize the airline to operate the route using Israeli aircraft and crews, El Al stated.

Passengers who purchased tickets will receive either a full cash refund or the option to book alternative travel with connections through Thailand.

Arkia, a competing carrier, continues to maintain flight operations to Vietnam.