This year, Austrian Airlines once again flew the traditional ORF Peace Light to Austria. This has a very special meaning because of the war started by Hamas. This time, for security reasons, it could not be brought on board an AUA aircraft in Tel Aviv. 

Austrian Airlines has been pausing all regular Israel flights for several weeks. Special flights were carried out on behalf of the federal government because the solution originally envisaged, that the federal army would use the old Hercules aircraft, failed spectacularly. The military aircraft was unfit to fly. 

This time, the AUA was unable to pick up the peace light lit in Bethlehem in Tel Aviv; instead, it was first brought overland to Amman (Jordan). From there it then flew to Vienna-Schwechat on November 16, 2023 on board OS854. 

“This year more than ever, the ORF Peace Light is a strong sign of the longing for peace, which gives hope and confidence to so many people,” emphasizes ORF Upper Austria country director Klaus Obereder when receiving the light at Vienna-Schwechat Airport: “More than 2000 ago The message of Christmas peace has been proclaimed in Bethlehem for years - that's why this Christmas symbol is particularly important this year. Combined with the great hope for peace in the world.” 

The ORF Peace Light can be picked up on December 24th in all ORF state studios, at all occupied train stations and in all Red Cross offices, at many fire departments and also in many churches.