United Airlines to Resume Flights to Israel Amid Ceasefire
- July 10, 2025
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United Airlines has announced the resumption of its flights to Israel, marking a significant development in air travel between the United States and the Middle Eastern nation. This decision comes in the wake of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran, which has allowed for the reopening of Israeli airspace. United Airlines, based in Chicago, will restart its service to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv from New York/Newark on July 21, with plans to increase to twice-daily flights shortly thereafter.
The airline had previously suspended its operations last month, with the final flight occurring just before the onset of “Operation Rising Lion” on June 11. The conflict led to Israel closing its airspace on June 13, but full operations have now resumed following a ceasefire brokered by President Donald Trump. United Airlines emphasized its commitment to serving Tel Aviv, highlighting that it has operated more flights to this destination than any other U.S. airline throughout 2025.
United’s decision to resume flights is part of a broader strategy that involves careful assessment of regional operational considerations and collaboration with unions representing flight attendants and pilots. The airline will utilize its Boeing 787-10 aircraft for these routes and maintain connections through a partnership with Lufthansa Group airlines.
In contrast, American Airlines has not resumed service to Tel Aviv since October 6, 2023, following a terrorist attack by Hamas. The airline continues to evaluate its network but has not announced any new plans regarding Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department maintains a travel advisory for Israel, urging travelers to reconsider their plans due to ongoing terrorism and civil unrest.
The recent ceasefire has also facilitated diplomatic engagements, with President Trump hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. This meeting marked Netanyahu’s first visit since the conflict began and underscored the ongoing efforts to strengthen U.S.-Israel relations.