American Airlines Plans March JFK-Tel Aviv Flights After Gaza Ceasefire

American Airlines announced it will resume direct flights between New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport and Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport starting March 28, 2026, following a two-year suspension due to the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which triggered the Gaza war. This move makes American Airlines the last major U.S. carrier to restore service to Israel after the ceasefire, joining United, Delta, El Al, and Arkia. Flights will operate daily with Boeing 777-200ER aircraft, with tickets going on sale soon, and fares starting around $859 for round trips. The resumption coincides with a rebound in Israeli aviation and tourism sectors, notably timed just before the Passover holiday when visitor numbers typically surge. The airline has also started hiring Hebrew-speaking cabin crew to prepare for the restart of flights, reflecting broader industry efforts to meet growing demand after a period of limited direct travel options. This development underscores the gradual normalization of air travel to Israel amid improving security and diplomatic conditions.