Following the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that was enforced in January, global airlines have begun to lift flight suspensions to and from Israel. Many Western carriers have resumed operations, with Lufthansa Group reinstating flights to Tel Aviv as of February 1. 2025. United Airlines will become the first U.S. carrier to resume service to Tel Aviv, with flights set to restart on March 15.
A Boeing 737-900 of United Airlines on approach for Mccarran International Airport © Noah Wulf
Flights to Tel Aviv temporarily cancelled
Many Western airlines cancelled flights to the Middle East in the past year because of the conflict in the region. Airlines, concerned about Iranian and Iraqi airspace amid drone and missile warfare, cancelled flights to destinations such as Beirut, Amman, and Tel Aviv. United Airlines temporarily suspended flights to Tel Aviv in July 2024, during a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East region, specifically following the escalation of conflict in Israel and Gaza.
The only airline to continue operating between the US and Israel since August 2024 was El Al Airlines. The airline was able to monopolise the flights among cancellations and skyrocketing prices.
United Airlines resumes flights to Israel
Following months of negotiations, Israel and Hamas announced a ceasefire on January 15. The aim of the new deal is to end the war by stopping the fighting and freeing hostages from both sides. The new ceasefire has stabilised the country, allowing for a cautious but safe resume of flights to Israel.
United Airlines will be the first US airline to resume operations from New York/Newark to Tel Aviv, starting March 15, 2025. The airline will also be scheduling a second daily flight, beginning March 29, which will provide travellers with more versatile options. Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners will operate the route.
United Airlines has released a statement saying:
This resumption follows a detailed assessment of operational considerations for the region and close work with the unions who represent our flight attendants and pilots. United has a longstanding commitment to serving Tel Aviv
Other US airlines will follow United, with Delta Airlines resuming operations between Tel Aviv on April 1, 2025.
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