Delta Air Lines and United Airlines are returning to Ben Gurion Airport after a nearly two-month hiatus. Delta resumed its JFK-Tel Aviv route on May 20th, while United has announced its plans to restart flights to Israel on Thursday, ahead of schedule.
The return of these two major US airlines has reignited competition in the market, leading to a decrease in ticket prices. Economy tickets are now available for under $1,200, a significant drop from previous months. In June, United is offering fares starting at $1,174, which includes both carry-on and checked luggage. In comparison, Arkia charges $2,389 for a similar flight, while El Al currently has no available economy seats in June.
Even during peak travel season in early July, United continues to offer the lowest fares, starting at $1,528. Delta’s prices begin at $2,285, while Arkia’s fares reach as high as $3,198. For travelers planning to fly during Rosh Hashanah (September 21st-27th), Delta provides the most affordable option with tickets starting at $1,355, compared to $2,498 on Arkia. During Sukkot (October 6th-13th), Arkia becomes the cheapest again with fares from $1,398, while United’s start at $1,921.
While the return of these American carriers is good news for travelers, there is also some uncertainty due to ongoing security risks, which could potentially result in renewed suspensions. In response, both United and Delta have introduced a new fare category called “refundable economy,” which offers a slightly higher price but allows for flexible cancellations. Given the current risks and tighter regulations under Israel’s amended “Tibi Law,” these tickets may be a safer option for travelers.
The price differences between business class tickets are even more significant, sometimes nearly double the economy fare. In June, Arkia charges $8,000, El Al $7,950, while United offers a more affordable option at just $5,881. From July 1st-7th, Arkia’s business class tickets are still priced at $8,000, while El Al drops to $6,588, and United remains the cheapest at $4,258. For those traveling during Rosh Hashanah, United’s business fares start at $3,397, compared to $6,550 on Arkia. During Sukkot, United’s prices begin at $3,671, while El Al’s remain at $7,950. In many cases, two passengers can fly business class with United for the price of one ticket on the competing airlines.
In addition to Delta and United, Air France, Transavia, and KLM have also resumed flights to Israel. Flights from the Netherlands to Israel will include a brief stop in Larnaca, while outbound flights from Israel to Amsterdam will be direct.