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In the aftermath of the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack, the world rallied around Israel. World leaders first condemned the raid, then began arranging for Israel to receive support to defend itself against Hamas and rescue hostages forcibly abducted to Gaza.

For safety reasons, various air carriers like Delta and United Airlines canceled service to Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities. Travelers with flights already booked were subsequently offered immediate refunds or rebookings through airlines with service, such as EL AL Israel Airlines.

Almost five months after the invasion of the Jewish state, airlines are now gearing up to resume service to Israel. While Delta is scheduled to restart flights to the country in May, United Airlines is planning to commence flight service to Israel as soon as next month.

More options for Americans traveling to Israel

Earlier today, United Airlines put out a press release announcing it'll provide service to Tel Aviv with flights leaving from New York/Newark. On Saturday, March 2 and Monday, March 4, these trips will pause in Munich, Germany ahead of arriving in Tel Aviv.

By Wednesday, March 6, United plans to offer even more direct service to the Israeli city.

In making this announcement, the airline let the public know about safety precautions that went into its decision. United disclosed its work with Israeli and American officials to ensure that service providers and passengers can securely complete these trips.

The Association of Flight Attendants and Air Line Pilots Association furthermore conferred with United before the carrier's call to restart flight service to Israel. This fall, United flights leaving from Chicago O’Hare, Washington Dulles, and San Francisco may begin including service to Tel Aviv as well.

Available air trips to Israel in February 2024

Americans looking to travel to Israel today will likely end up on flights operated by EL AL, Air Canada, JetBlue, Air France, or WestJet. Many of these active trips also have connections to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport. Travel times range from anywhere between 15 hours to 22 hours or more.

As the year continues, travelers interested in visiting Tel Aviv or other Israeli cities should keep an eye on available flight service.