What's Happening?
American Airlines has announced plans to resume its flights from New York to Israel starting March 28, 2026. This decision comes after the airline halted its service to Israel following the outbreak of war in October 2023. The resumption of flights will
see American Airlines competing on the Tel Aviv–New York route with other major carriers such as United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, El Al, and Arkia, all of which currently operate direct flights. The airline plans to use wide-body Boeing 777-200 aircraft for its daily service. The announcement coincides with a broader recovery in Israel's aviation sector, which is experiencing increased competition and a doubling of airlines operating from Ben-Gurion Airport during the upcoming Hanukkah holiday.
Why It's Important?
The return of American Airlines to the Tel Aviv–New York route is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it marks a recovery phase for the airline industry in Israel, which has been affected by geopolitical tensions and the pandemic. The increased competition among airlines is likely to benefit consumers through more options and potentially lower prices. Additionally, the resumption of flights by a major U.S. carrier like American Airlines underscores the importance of the U.S.-Israel travel corridor, which is vital for business, tourism, and cultural exchanges. The move also reflects a broader trend of airlines expanding their international routes as global travel demand rebounds.
What's Next?
With ticket sales set to open on October 27, 2025, American Airlines will likely focus on marketing its services to capture a share of the competitive Tel Aviv–New York market. The airline's return could prompt other carriers to adjust their pricing and service offerings to maintain their market positions. Additionally, the recovery of Israel's aviation sector may lead to further investments in infrastructure and services at Ben-Gurion Airport to accommodate the increased traffic. Stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry will be closely monitoring these developments as they plan for the upcoming travel seasons.
