Key Takeaways
• United Airlines resumes Newark-Tel Aviv flights July 22, 2025, increasing from one to two daily flights on July 23.
• Flights were suspended May 2025 due to missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport and regional security concerns.
• United moves up return date due to improved safety, becoming first major US carrier back before Delta or Lufthansa.
United Airlines Set to Resume Flights to Israel: What Travelers Need to Know
United Airlines is preparing to restart its flights to Israel 🇮🇱, with service from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) beginning July 22, 2025. This move comes after a period of suspended service due to security concerns in the region. United’s decision to resume flights earlier than planned is a major development for travelers, the airline industry, and the broader Israel–United States 🇺🇸 travel market. Here’s a detailed look at what this means, why it matters, and what travelers should expect in the coming weeks.
Who, What, When, Where, and Why
Who: United Airlines, one of the largest US carriers, is the first major American airline to announce the return of its flights to Israel 🇮🇱 after the recent suspensions.
What: United will operate nonstop flights between Newark (EWR) and Tel Aviv (TLV), starting with one daily flight on July 22, 2025, and increasing to two daily flights from July 23, 2025.
When: Service resumes July 22, 2025, with expanded frequency the following day.
Where: The flights will run between Newark Liberty International Airport in the United States 🇺🇸 and Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel 🇮🇱.
Why: United is restarting flights after a careful review of the security situation and in response to changes in regional safety, as well as growing demand for travel between the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱.
United’s Accelerated Return: What Changed?
United had originally planned to restart flights to Israel 🇮🇱 on August 1, 2025. However, recent developments in the region, including improved security assessments and the lifting of flight restrictions by the European Aviation Authority, led United to move up its return date by over a week. According to multiple news reports and sources within Israel’s Ministry of Transport, United’s decision was influenced by both operational readiness and the desire to be the first major US carrier back in the market.
As of July 8, 2025, United has not made a formal public announcement, and tickets for these flights are not yet available for booking on the United website. However, the information has been confirmed by several reputable Israeli and international news outlets, making it clear that the airline is preparing for a swift return.
Background: Why Were Flights Suspended?
United, along with most foreign airlines, suspended flights to Israel 🇮🇱 in May 2025. This decision followed a missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport, which raised serious concerns about the safety of air travel in and out of the country. The situation was further complicated by ongoing regional conflict, including Israel’s military operations against Iran and attacks from Yemen. These events led to repeated suspensions and resumptions of service by various airlines, as carriers responded to changing security conditions.
United has shown more flexibility than other US airlines, being both the first to suspend and the first to resume flights in response to security developments. The airline’s approach has been shaped by ongoing safety assessments and close consultation with flight attendant and pilot unions.
Legal and Political Pressure on United
United’s decisions regarding flights to Israel 🇮🇱 have not been without controversy. In June 2025, the National Center for Public Policy Research filed a lawsuit against United, alleging that the airline’s suspension of flights was influenced by union pressure and political activism, rather than purely by safety concerns. United, for its part, has stated that its decisions are based on safety assessments and union consultations.
The timing of United’s resumption—shortly after the lawsuit was filed—has drawn attention, but the airline maintains that passenger and crew safety remains its top priority. This episode highlights the complex mix of legal, political, and operational factors that airlines must consider when making decisions about service to regions affected by conflict.
Market Impact: What Happened During the Suspension?
During United’s suspension, only Israeli carriers El Al and Arkia continued to operate the transatlantic route between the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱. This limited capacity led to oversold flights and high ticket prices, making it difficult for many travelers to find seats or afford the cost of travel. The absence of major US carriers also put pressure on the Israeli aviation sector, which had to absorb the increased demand.
The European Aviation Authority’s decision to lift all flight restrictions on Israel 🇮🇱 in early July 2025 was a key turning point. This move signaled improved safety conditions and opened the door for more foreign airlines to consider returning to the Israeli market.
Other Airlines: Who’s Flying and Who’s Not?
United’s early return puts it ahead of other major US and international carriers. Here’s a snapshot of the current airline landscape for flights to Israel 🇮🇱:
- Delta Air Lines: Scheduled to resume New York–Tel Aviv service on September 1, 2025.
- Lufthansa Group: Announced a gradual resumption of Israel flights starting August 1, 2025.
- Other Carriers: Many European and international airlines, including Air Canada, are extending suspensions into late summer or early fall, with some not planning to return until September 2025.
- Current Operators: As of July 2025, Israeli airlines and a handful of foreign carriers (Delta, Air France, KLM, Ethiopian, Aegean, Air Baltic, Transavia) are operating flights to Israel 🇮🇱.
This staggered return means that United will have a first-mover advantage, capturing pent-up demand from travelers eager to fly between the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱.
Practical Implications for Travelers
For travelers, United’s return is welcome news—but there are important details to keep in mind:
Booking: As of July 8, 2025, United’s flights to Tel Aviv are not yet available for booking on the official website. Travelers should regularly check United’s official travel alerts page for updates on booking availability and any changes to the schedule.
Demand and Prices: Expect high demand and potentially elevated prices, especially in the first weeks after service resumes. With only a few carriers operating flights to Israel 🇮🇱, seats are likely to sell quickly, and fares may remain high until more airlines return to the market.
Safety and Operations: United’s decision to resume flights follows detailed safety and operational assessments. The airline has worked closely with flight attendant and pilot unions to ensure that all necessary precautions are in place. Travelers should be aware that the situation remains dynamic, and schedules could change if security conditions shift.
Travel Requirements: Passengers should review entry requirements for Israel 🇮🇱, including any visa or health documentation needed. The Israel Ministry of Transport provides official updates on travel regulations and safety advisories.
Stakeholder Perspectives: What Does This Mean for Different Groups?
Israeli Authorities: The Ministry of Transport has welcomed United’s early return, seeing it as a positive step for Israel’s aviation recovery and international connectivity. The resumption of flights is expected to boost tourism, business travel, and family visits between the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱.
US Airlines: United’s move puts competitive pressure on Delta and other US carriers, who have been slower to resume service. This could lead to increased competition and, eventually, more options and better prices for travelers.
Travelers: The return of United is expected to ease some of the pressure on Israeli carriers, making it easier for people to find seats and potentially helping to stabilize ticket prices. However, travelers should remain flexible and prepared for possible changes, as the situation in the region can shift quickly.
Travel Agencies and Tour Operators: The resumption of flights is likely to boost bookings for travel agencies and tour operators who specialize in trips to Israel 🇮🇱. Many have faced challenges during the suspension, with limited options for clients and uncertainty about future travel.
Business Community: For businesses with operations in both the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱, the return of direct flights is a major improvement. It allows for easier movement of staff, faster shipping of goods, and more reliable connections for meetings and events.
Future Outlook: What’s Next for Flights to Israel?
The international flight landscape to Israel 🇮🇱 is expected to normalize gradually through late summer and early fall 2025. With the European Aviation Authority lifting restrictions and more airlines planning to return, travelers can expect more options and, eventually, lower prices as competition increases.
However, airlines remain highly sensitive to regional security developments. Any escalation in conflict could prompt renewed suspensions or changes to flight schedules. Travelers should stay informed and be prepared to adjust their plans if necessary.
Summary Table: United Airlines Israel Service (July 2025)
| Date | Service Level | Booking Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 22, 2025 | 1x daily EWR–TLV | Not yet available | First US carrier to resume after May 2025 suspension |
| July 23, 2025+ | 2x daily EWR–TLV | Not yet available | Accelerated return; official announcement pending |
How United’s Return Impacts Immigration and Travel
The resumption of United’s flights to Israel 🇮🇱 is not just about tourism or business—it also has important implications for immigration and family reunification. Many people rely on direct flights for urgent travel, whether to visit family, attend important events, or manage immigration paperwork.
Family Reunification: Direct flights make it easier for families separated by distance to visit each other, especially during times of crisis or celebration. The lack of flights in recent months has made these visits difficult or impossible for many.
Immigration Processes: For those applying for visas or managing immigration status between the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱, direct flights are essential. They allow for timely travel to attend interviews, submit documents, or comply with legal requirements.
Students and Workers: Many students and professionals travel between the two countries for study or work. The return of United’s flights will help restore these important connections, making it easier for people to pursue educational and career opportunities.
Tourism and Cultural Exchange: Direct flights support tourism and cultural exchange, bringing people together and helping both countries benefit from increased travel and cooperation.
Advice for Travelers: What Should You Do Now?
If you’re planning to travel between the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱, here are some practical steps to take:
- Monitor Official Channels: Check United’s travel alerts page and the Israel Ministry of Transport for the latest updates.
- Be Ready to Book: With high demand expected, be prepared to book as soon as tickets become available.
- Stay Flexible: Be aware that schedules could change if security conditions shift. Have backup plans in case of delays or cancellations.
- Check Entry Requirements: Make sure you have all necessary documents, including visas and health certificates, before you travel.
- Consider Travel Insurance: Given the dynamic situation, travel insurance can provide peace of mind in case of unexpected changes.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, United’s accelerated return to Israel 🇮🇱 is a sign of growing confidence in the region’s safety and a positive step for travelers, families, and businesses alike.
Official Resources
For the most up-to-date information on United’s flights to Israel 🇮🇱, visit United’s official travel alerts page. For information on travel regulations and safety in Israel 🇮🇱, consult the Israel Ministry of Transport.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for US–Israel Air Travel
United’s decision to resume flights to Israel 🇮🇱 marks an important milestone in the recovery of international travel to the region. While challenges remain, the move is expected to bring relief to travelers, support family reunification, and help restore normalcy to the US–Israel air corridor. As more airlines follow United’s lead, travelers can look forward to increased options, better prices, and a smoother travel experience in the months ahead.
Travelers, families, and businesses should stay informed, act quickly when booking becomes available, and remain flexible as the situation continues to evolve. With United’s return, a vital link between the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱 is being restored, opening the door to new opportunities and renewed connections for people on both sides of the Atlantic.
Learn Today
United Airlines → A major US airline resuming flights between Newark and Tel Aviv starting July 2025.
Ben Gurion Airport → Primary international airport near Tel Aviv, Israel, serving as the destination for these flights.
Flight suspension → Temporary halt of airline operations due to safety or security risks in a region.
European Aviation Authority → Regulatory agency that lifted flight restrictions on Israel, enabling airlines to resume service.
Flight attendant union → Labor organization representing flight crew, involved in consultations on resuming flights for safety.
This Article in a Nutshell
United Airlines will restart Newark to Tel Aviv flights July 22, 2025, a week earlier than planned. This signals improved regional security and addresses high demand. As the first major US airline back, United offers relief for travelers and boosts US-Israel connectivity amidst prior suspensions from conflict concerns.
— By VisaVerge.com
