After months of hiatus due to security concerns stemming from the conflict between Israel and the Gaza Strip, United Airlines has announced its plans to resume flights to Tel Aviv, marking a significant milestone in air travel to the region. The decision by United Airlines makes it the first major carrier in the United States to reinstate flights to Israel since the conflict began.
According to the airline’s announcement, United will recommence its daily flights between Newark Liberty International Airport and Tel Aviv starting in March. The initial flights on March 2 and March 4 will include a stop in Munich to ensure seamless service before transitioning to daily nonstop flights between Newark and Tel Aviv from March 6 onward.
Looking ahead, United aims to expand its schedule by introducing a second daily flight between Newark and Tel Aviv as early as May. Additionally, the airline will evaluate the possibility of resuming flights to Israel from San Francisco, Washington D.C., and Chicago in the fall.
The decision to resume flights follows a comprehensive safety analysis conducted by United, which involved collaboration with security experts and government officials from both the United States and Israel. The airline also worked closely with the Air Line Pilots Association and the Association of Flight Attendants to develop safety protocols ensuring the well-being and confidence of passengers and crew members.
Despite the ongoing advisory from the U.S. Department of State urging U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest, United’s decision underscores its commitment to resuming operations while prioritizing safety and security.
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