June 17, 2025 — New York / Tel Aviv:
In response to rising security concerns in the Middle East, two major U.S. carriers—Delta Air Lines and United Airlines—have suspended their flight operations to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV). The announcement comes amid escalating regional tensions that have prompted multiple governments and aviation authorities to reassess travel safety to and from Israel.
Delta Air Lines confirmed that it has paused service between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Tel Aviv until at least August 31, 2025. The decision follows what the carrier described as “ongoing security concerns in the region.” Meanwhile, United Airlines has also halted its Newark (EWR) to Tel Aviv route, citing similar safety considerations.
The suspensions, effective immediately, disrupt summer travel plans for hundreds of passengers and signal heightened caution by airlines navigating an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.
Delta Airlines: Flight Resumption Short-Lived
Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines had only recently resumed operations to Tel Aviv on May 20, 2025, following a previous suspension triggered by regional conflict. Plans were also announced to launch a second daily flight between JFK and Tel Aviv for the winter 2025 travel season. However, those plans are now on indefinite hold.
A spokesperson for Delta stated:
“The safety of our passengers and crew is our highest priority. We are closely monitoring the situation and will resume service when conditions allow.”
Affected passengers have been offered a full refund, travel credit, or rebooking options for later dates or alternative destinations, depending on their travel preferences. Delta’s customer care teams are reaching out proactively to those booked on affected flights.
United Airlines: Cautious Return Met with Another Pause
United Airlines, which had resumed Tel Aviv flights on June 5, 2025, has also announced a renewed suspension. The Chicago-based carrier had already paused service to Israel multiple times over the past two years, particularly during flare-ups of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
In a recent statement, United Airlines confirmed:
“We are suspending operations to Tel Aviv due to the latest developments in regional security. Our teams are coordinating with local and international agencies and will make decisions based on real-time intelligence and safety assessments.”
Passengers booked on the United route between Newark Liberty International Airport and Tel Aviv are being offered the choice of travel credits or full refunds. The airline emphasized that no resumption date has been announced, and future service will depend entirely on the evolving situation on the ground.
American Airlines Maintains Suspension Since October 2023
American Airlines, the third major U.S. carrier with former service to Tel Aviv, has not resumed operations since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023. The airline has not provided a timeline for potential service resumption, underscoring the ongoing uncertainty that continues to affect international travel to the region.
Rising Geopolitical Risks Impacting Travel
The renewed suspensions by Delta and United reflect broader travel advisories issued by government agencies. The U.S. Department of State maintains a Level 3 Travel Advisory (“Reconsider Travel”) for Israel due to risks of terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict. The situation has been particularly volatile near the Gaza border, although concerns have extended to central areas, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also continued to monitor and review operations for U.S. carriers flying over Israeli airspace, offering real-time guidance based on intelligence updates.
Aviation experts note that airline risk assessments have become more dynamic in recent years, especially after incidents like the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 over Ukraine in 2014 and increased missile threats in conflict zones.
“Airlines cannot afford to take chances. Even in areas where airports remain technically open, the calculation is more about potential risks than current conditions,” said Charles Peterson, a Middle East aviation analyst.
Economic and Tourism Implications for Israel
The impact of suspended air service goes beyond just passenger inconvenience. Israel’s tourism and hospitality sectors are expected to feel the pinch, particularly as summer 2025 was projected to be a strong season following post-pandemic recovery.
Tel Aviv, often regarded as a hub for business travel, religious tourism, and startup activity, relies heavily on international air connectivity. The Israel Ministry of Tourism has yet to issue a formal statement, though industry insiders suggest contingency plans are being evaluated to support ongoing travel operations with European and regional carriers still servicing Ben Gurion Airport.
Conclusion: Uncertainty Ahead for Middle East Travel
The decision by Delta and United Airlines to suspend flights to Tel Aviv reflects a cautious but necessary approach to passenger safety amid renewed geopolitical uncertainty. While hopes for a quick resumption remain, the timeline is likely to depend on the evolution of the regional security landscape.
Travellers with planned itineraries to or through Israel are advised to monitor airline alerts, government advisories, and local developments closely. Meanwhile, airlines are coordinating with local authorities to ensure that when it is safe to resume, they are ready to do so with minimal disruption.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
