Delta Revives Flights to Tel Aviv 2025
So, it was October 2023, and just about every international airline was pulling out of Israel faster than you can say “conflict.” Safety concerns were rampant, thanks to those horrific Hamas attacks, leaving airlines no choice but to shelve their flights to the region. Even the biggest names in aviation were left scratching their heads, wondering how and when they’d make their comeback amidst the ever-dodgy security situation.
But with a ceasefire now in place, the skies are brightening for US airlines. Delta has thrown its hat back into the ring, gearing up to reignite its Israel flights. Let’s take a closer look at what this means for air travel to the Holy Land.
Delta’s New York to Tel Aviv Route is Back on the Radar
Mark your calendars for April 1, 2025. No fooling—Delta’s bringing back its daily flight service between New York (JFK) and Tel Aviv (TLV). The romantic affair with Israeli airspace ended in July 2024, but it’s time for a reunion. Here’s the scoop on the schedule :
- DL234 jets off from New York at 3:40 PM and touches down in Tel Aviv at 9:35 AM the next day.
- DL235 bids adieu to Tel Aviv at 11:35 AM and gives a warm New York welcome at 5:00 PM.
This globe-trotting adventure covers 5,677 miles and will keep you seated for a comfy 10 hours and 55 minutes heading east and about 12 hours and 25 minutes on your way back west. Expect to hop aboard an Airbus A330-900neo, showcasing 281 seats, with lounges for 29 business class, 28 pampered premium economy, 56 extra legroom economy, and a sprawling 168 in the good old economy class.
Delta’s honchos assure us this isn’t a rash move. After all, they’ve combed through a “comprehensive security review,” joining forces with government and private partners. Their mantra? Safety first, sprinkled with an extra pinch of precaution for flights to and from Tel Aviv.
Let’s face it, United Airlines can’t just loiter around the sidelines, right? Historically, United’s been the MVP of American skies in Israel, so you can bet they’re strategizing to swoop in soon. Although, word on the tarmac is they might shuffle their aircraft elsewhere for the summer season.
Delta & EL AL: A Dynamic Duo?
Delta’s rekindled interest in Israel brings another intriguing subplot into play: their partnership with EL AL. Back in the summer haze of June 2023, Delta and EL AL decided to shake hands over a fresh strategic partnership. Problem was, they planned to launch just as Delta was packing its bags and leaving due to unstable times.
As aircraft start revving up for Israeli skies, eyes are on this partnership to see how it materializes in real life. Will the duo stir up the route network pot with more tie-ups? Historically, Delta thrives on joint ventures and strategic alliances. With EL AL holding fort as the sole flyer during these turbulent times, there’s room for potential synergy.
But hey, they might just leave it as is—Delta’s strategy to square off against United without a complete overhaul. Only time will tell how this aerial soap opera unfolds.
Bottom Line: The Endgame
Delta’s dust-off-the-old-flight-plans maneuver means they’re officially the first US airline declaring a return ticket to Israel, post-ceasefire. With sky-high ticket prices being public enemy number one for travelers, this development could mean sweet relief.
Alright jet-setters, what’s your take on Delta’s plans to reintroduce flights to Israel?
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