United Airlines Resumes Newark to Tel Aviv Flights June 5, 2025

Key Takeaways

• United Airlines resumes Newark–Tel Aviv flights June 5, 2025, adding a second daily flight June 6.
• Flight suspension began May 4 after a missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport.
• Return follows thorough safety review with pilot and crew unions involved.

United Airlines to Resume Newark–Tel Aviv Flights on June 5: What Travelers Need to Know

United Airlines will restart its flights between Newark, New Jersey, and Tel Aviv, Israel, on Thursday, June 5, 2025. This decision comes after a month-long suspension caused by a missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport. United’s move is important for travelers, families, businesspeople, and anyone with ties between the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱. Here’s what you need to know about the resumption, why it matters, and what it means for passengers and the broader travel industry.

Who, What, When, Where, and Why

United Airlines is the first major U.S. airline to bring back direct flights to Israel after the May 4, 2025, missile incident. The first flight departs from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) on June 5, 2025. A second daily flight will be added on June 6. This early return is a change from United’s previous plan, which had suspended all Israel flights until at least June 12. The decision follows a detailed review of safety and operations, with input from pilot and crew unions.

Background: Why Were Flights Suspended?

The recent suspension began on May 4, 2025, after a Houthi missile landed near Ben Gurion Airport. This event led to widespread flight cancellations by many international airlines, including United. Before this, United had only just restarted flights in March 2025, after a long break due to the war in Gaza that began in October 2023. The security situation in the region has made airlines cautious, with many choosing to pause or limit flights until they feel it is safe for passengers and crew.

Timeline of United Airlines’ Israel Service

• October 2023: United and most foreign airlines stop flights to Israel due to war in Gaza.
• March 2025: United briefly resumes flights.
• May 4, 2025: Houthi missile strike near Ben Gurion Airport; United suspends all Israel flights.
• June 5, 2025: United resumes Newark–Tel Aviv flights, with a second daily flight starting June 6.

Why United Airlines’ Return Matters

United Airlines’ decision to resume flights is a big step for several reasons:

• Restoring a Key Link: The Newark–Tel Aviv route is a major connection between the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱. Many people rely on this route for family visits, business, tourism, and education.
• Market Competition: During the suspension, Israeli airlines like El Al had little competition, leading to higher prices and fewer options for travelers. United’s return is expected to bring more choices and possibly lower fares.
• Setting an Example: As the first major U.S. airline to return, United’s move may encourage other carriers to follow, helping the travel industry recover.

How Was the Decision Made?

United Airlines says it made the decision after a “detailed assessment of operational considerations for the region.” This means the airline looked closely at the risks, worked with security experts, and talked with pilot and crew unions. The safety of passengers and staff was the top concern. Both pilot and flight attendant unions were involved in the review, showing how important crew safety is in these decisions.

What About Other Airlines?

United is not alone in returning to Israel, but it is leading among U.S. carriers. Here’s what other airlines are doing:

• Delta: Resumed New York–Tel Aviv flights in late May.
• Air France, Wizz Air, Aegean, Air Europa, Azerbaijan Airlines: Have also resumed service.
• Lufthansa: Plans to return on June 15.
• British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair: Flights suspended until at least the end of July.
• Air Canada: Flights suspended until September 8.

Some airlines, like Ryanair, have voiced frustration over the ongoing security situation. Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, recently said the company is “losing patience” with the lack of stability.

What Does This Mean for Passengers?

For travelers, the return of United Airlines flights brings relief and new options. Here’s what you should know if you plan to fly:

Booking Flights

• Flights Available: You can book United’s Newark–Tel Aviv flights for departures from June 5 onward.
• Where to Book: Tickets are available on United’s website and through travel agents.

Travel Alerts and Changes

• Stay Updated: Check United’s travel alerts page for any last-minute changes, waivers, or restrictions.
• Flexible Policies: If flights are canceled or rescheduled, United usually offers rebooking or refunds, following its standard policies.

Security and Screening

• Enhanced Security: Expect more thorough security checks at both Newark and Ben Gurion airports. The situation in the region means airlines and airports are extra careful.
• Possible Delays: Be ready for possible schedule changes or delays, especially if the security situation changes.

Alternative Options

• Other Airlines: If United’s flights are full or canceled, check with other airlines that have resumed service, like Delta or Air France.
• Israeli Airlines: El Al and other local carriers continue to operate, but may have higher prices due to increased demand.

Impact on the Travel Market

The suspension of flights after the May 4 missile strike left many people stranded or forced to cancel travel plans. This was especially hard during the busy summer season, when many families travel for vacations, weddings, or to visit relatives. With United’s return, travelers have more choices, and prices may become more reasonable as competition increases.

How Airlines Decide When to Resume Flights

Airlines do not all return at the same time after a security incident. Each airline does its own risk assessment, looking at:

• Security Reports: Information from governments, airports, and security experts.
• Crew Safety: Input from pilot and flight attendant unions.
• Operational Needs: Whether they have enough staff and resources to run the flights safely.
• Commercial Demand: How many people want to fly the route.

This is why some airlines, like United and Delta, are returning sooner, while others, like British Airways and Ryanair, are waiting until later in the summer or fall.

What About Immigration and Visa Issues?

Travelers flying between the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱 should make sure their travel documents are in order. Here are some tips:

• Passports: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.
• Visas: U.S. citizens can visit Israel for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism or business. For longer stays or other purposes, check the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs for up-to-date visa requirements.
• Entry Restrictions: Security situations can change quickly. Always check for the latest entry rules and advisories from the U.S. Embassy in Israel.

What Should Passengers Do Now?

If you plan to travel on United Airlines between Newark and Tel Aviv, here are some steps to follow:

1. Book Early: Flights may fill up quickly as service resumes.
2. Check Travel Alerts: Visit United’s travel alerts page before your trip.
3. Prepare for Security: Arrive at the airport early and be ready for extra screening.
4. Stay Flexible: Be prepared for possible changes to your flight schedule.
5. Monitor News: Keep an eye on news about the security situation in Israel and the region.

How Does This Affect Different Groups?

• Immigrants and Dual Citizens: Many people with family in both countries depend on direct flights for visits, emergencies, or business. The return of United’s flights makes these trips easier and more affordable.
• Students: Students studying abroad or attending programs in Israel can now plan their travel with more certainty.
• Business Travelers: Companies with offices or partners in Israel rely on regular flights to keep business running smoothly.
• Tourists: The summer season is popular for tourism. More flights mean more opportunities for people to visit Israel’s historic sites, beaches, and cities.

Industry and Market Impact

United Airlines’ return is expected to have several effects on the travel market:

• Increased Competition: More airlines flying means lower prices and better service for travelers.
• Pressure on Other Airlines: As United and Delta resume flights, other airlines may feel pressure to return sooner to avoid losing customers.
• Market Normalization: The return of U.S. and European airlines is expected to bring the market back to normal, ending the near-monopoly of Israeli carriers during the suspension.

Safety and Security: The Top Priority

The main reason for the suspension and careful return of flights is safety. Airlines, unions, and governments all agree that the safety of passengers and crew comes first. United’s decision to resume flights only came after a thorough review and agreement with pilot and crew unions. This shows how seriously airlines take their responsibility to protect everyone on board.

What’s Next? Future Outlook

The situation in Israel and the region remains unpredictable. Airlines will keep monitoring security and may change their plans if needed. United may consider bringing back flights from other U.S. cities, like Chicago, San Francisco, or Washington, later in 2025 if conditions allow. Other airlines, such as Lufthansa, plan to return in mid-June, while some, like British Airways and Ryanair, are waiting until late July or later.

Summary Table: United Airlines Israel Flight Status (as of June 1, 2025)

Official Resources for Travelers

• United Airlines Official Website: united.com
• Travel Alerts: united.com/en/us/fly/travel/trip-planning/travel-alerts.html
• Ben Gurion Airport Information: iaa.gov.il
• U.S. Embassy in Israel: il.usembassy.gov (for travel advisories and security updates)

Expert and Industry Perspectives

Aviation experts say that each airline must make its own decision about when to resume flights, based on its own risk assessment. This is why there is no single date when all airlines return. United’s early return is expected to help travelers and put pressure on other airlines to follow. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the move also highlights the importance of close cooperation between airlines, unions, and security authorities in making these decisions.

Key Takeaways for Travelers

• United Airlines resumes Newark–Tel Aviv flights on June 5, 2025.
• A second daily flight will start on June 6.
• Travelers should expect enhanced security and possible schedule changes.
• More competition may lead to lower fares and more options.
• Always check official travel alerts and advisories before your trip.

Final Thoughts

United Airlines’ decision to restart flights between Newark and Tel Aviv is a positive sign for travelers, families, and businesses with ties to Israel. While the situation remains fluid, the return of direct flights restores an important link between the United States 🇺🇸 and Israel 🇮🇱. Travelers should stay informed, plan ahead, and be ready for changes as airlines and authorities continue to monitor the region’s security. For the latest updates, always check official airline and government websites before booking or traveling.

Learn Today

Ben Gurion Airport → Main international airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, central to security concerns affecting flights.
Houthi missile → A missile launched by Houthi forces, causing flight suspensions near Ben Gurion Airport in May 2025.
Flight suspension → Temporary halting of airline operations on a route due to safety or security issues.
Pilot and crew unions → Organizations representing airline staff, involved in flight safety and operational decisions.
Travel alerts → Official notices from airlines with updates on flight status, security, and travel policies.

This Article in a Nutshell

United Airlines resumes Newark to Tel Aviv flights on June 5, 2025, after a missile strike suspension. Two daily flights restart early, boosting US-Israel travel. Safety evaluations with unions ensured crew protection. This reinstates vital air links, increases competition, and impacts travelers amid ongoing regional security concerns.
— By VisaVerge.com