Introduction to Renewed Air Services
Following recent ceasefire agreements in the Middle East, major U.S. carriers are eagerly resuming flights to Israel, signaling a resurgence in air travel to the region. United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, two of the largest airlines in the United States, have announced separate plans to restart their operations, which had been suspended due to increased hostilities in the region. This development is a response to the stabilized geopolitical situation and the high demand for travel between the two countries.
United Airlines’ Strategic Resumption Plans
United Airlines is set to reinstate its flight operations from New York-Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) starting March 15, 2025. The service will initially be daily, utilizing one of their 21 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners. Each aircraft offers 318 seats across three classes, providing a range of options for passengers. On March 29, 2025, United plans to double the frequency with a second daily flight, indicating strong market confidence and demand. The decision follows a thorough review involving operational assessments and collaboration with flight crew unions, ensuring all preparations align with safety and efficiency standards.
Delta Air Lines Expands with Codeshare Agreements
Delta Air Lines, not to be outdone, will restart its operations on April 1, 2025, with daily nonstop services from New York-JFK (JFK) to Tel Aviv using its Airbus A330-900neo aircraft. This addition nearly adds 2,000 weekly seats on the route. Furthermore, Delta’s strategic growth in the Israeli market is bolstered by a new codeshare partnership with EL AL Israel Airlines. This agreement enables Delta customers to book flights on EL AL’s routes from major U.S. cities to Tel Aviv, enhancing connectivity and convenience for travelers.
Emergence of New Services by Arkia Israeli Airlines
In the wake of these developments, Arkia Israeli Airlines, Israel’s second-largest carrier, is also entering the competitive landscape. Arkia announced a new direct service from Tel Aviv to New York-JFK starting February 9, 2024. This thrice-weekly service is a collaboration with TechAir, a not-for-profit technology forum aimed at facilitating travel for Israeli tech entrepreneurs and investors to the U.S. The flights will be operated using a leased Airbus A330-900neo from Iberojet, configured to seat 371 passengers. While the service is set initially to run until at least May 2025, its continuation will depend on the competitive response from established players like United and Delta.
Conclusion
The resumption of flights by United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, coupled with the entry of Arkia Israeli Airlines into the market, marks a significant revival in air travel between the United States and Israel. These developments not only reflect the economic and strategic interests of the airlines but also the broader implications for international travel and commerce post-conflict. The aviation industry will closely monitor the success of these routes, which are expected to cater to business travelers, tourists, and the diaspora, contributing to stronger bilateral ties between the two nations.