Background
A North American educational organization arranged a cultural and leadership program in Israel for 200 high school and college students from the U.S. and Canada. The itinerary included visits to historical sites, community service, and educational seminars—carefully planned and coordinated in partnership with ABT Travel.

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Challenge
Midway through the trip, regional tensions rapidly escalated, and commercial airspace access became restricted. The group’s scheduled return flight was abruptly cancelled due to the unfolding conflict. With limited time, rising safety concerns, and high anxiety among students, staff, and families back home, the organization needed an immediate, large-scale evacuation solution.

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ABT Travel's Response
Within hours of the cancellation, ABT Travel activated its 24/7 emergency response team. Leveraging our global network of aviation and logistics partners, we quickly arranged for four chartered aircraft to transport the students and staff from Israel to Athens—a safe and neutral transit hub.

Upon arrival in Athens, our team secured hotel accommodations, provided all meals, and remained on-site to assist with logistics, medical needs, and communication back to families in North America. Simultaneously, we negotiated and confirmed the charter of a wide-body jumbo jet to fly the entire group home to New York City.

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Outcome
The entire evacuation process—from initial flight cancellation to safe arrival in NYC—was completed in just under 72 hours. What typically takes weeks to plan and coordinate was executed over a single weekend. All 200 students and staff were returned safely and efficiently, with minimal disruption and maximum care.

 

Client Testimonial

"ABT Travel went above and beyond during an incredibly stressful time. Their team acted with urgency, professionalism, and compassion—ensuring our students were safe and supported every step of the way. What they accomplished in one weekend was nothing short of extraordinary."

— Program Director, North American Youth Leadership Exchange

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• 200-person evacuation executed in under 72 hours
   

• Four charter flights and one wide-body jet coordinated across multiple countries
   

• Full-service support: meals, lodging, ground transportation, and on-site assistance
   

• 24/7 response and communication with families, staff, and leadership
   

ABT Travel's ability to respond rapidly, think strategically, and deliver under pressure underscores the value of working with a travel management partner that is both prepared and proactive in times of crisis.