Delta Air Lines’ Extended Pause to Tel Aviv

Delta Air Lines has extended its halt on flights between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) through the end of August. Initially implementing the pause last week, Delta cited heightened concerns about the evolving security environment in the region as the primary reason for this decision. The airline has also suspended sales of these flights and provided a travel waiver for customers who had booked travel to or from Tel Aviv before September 10.

United Airlines’ Flight Schedule Adjustment

Following a similar trajectory, United Airlines also suspended flights to Israel last week, specifically pausing service between its hub at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Tel Aviv. As of Thursday, the airline has completely removed these flights from its schedule. Initially, flights were set to resume on September 1. A spokesperson for United stated that the airline looks forward to resuming flights when it is safe for both customers and crew.

Impact and Broader Context

Both Delta and United Airlines had halted their flights to Tel Aviv in October following Israel’s declaration of war on Hamas but had resumed operations in the spring and summer of this year. This renewed suspension comes amid rising regional tensions and fears of a broader conflict. Other international airlines, including those within the Lufthansa Group and Air India, have also recently paused flights to the area due to the security situation.

Official Travel Advisories

The U.S. Department of State has issued advisories recommending travelers to reconsider travel to Israel due to terrorism and civil unrest. Specific cautions are made against traveling within 2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders. The security situation remains highly unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are urged to stay vigilant and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety.