You're standing at JFK Terminal 4, clutching a lukewarm $14 latte, wondering if you actually booked the right seat for a ten-hour haul. Honestly, the New York to Israel corridor is one of the most competitive, confusing, and high-stakes flight paths in the world. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about navigating a maze of shifting schedules, security protocols that make the TSA look like a welcoming committee, and pricing that swings wilder than the stock market.
Right now, in early 2026, the landscape of flights to tel aviv from nyc has changed. Again.
If you haven't looked at the flight boards lately, things are finally stabilizing after years of "will they, won't they" from the major US carriers. But stability doesn't mean simple. You’ve got El Al running the show with sheer frequency, Delta and United fighting for the premium business traveler, and American Airlines finally re-entering the ring.
The Great Airline Shuffle: Who’s Actually Flying?
Most people think you just pick between El Al and whatever US airline you have miles with. It's more nuanced.
El Al is basically the "Old Reliable" of this route. They operate upwards of 27 flights a week just from JFK, plus another dozen or so from Newark (EWR). They’re the ones people flock to when things get tense globally because they almost never cancel. But let’s be real: their Boeing 787 Dreamliners are great, but the service can be... "character-building."
Then you have the US titans. United is currently the dominant American player, running daily service out of Newark. Specifically, flight UA84 is the workhorse here, usually pushing back around 3:55 PM and landing in Tel Aviv the next morning. It's a favorite for New Jersey residents and anyone who prefers the B787-10’s cabin pressure.
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Delta is back in full force at JFK. They even added a second daily frequency recently to handle the winter rush. If you’re a SkyMiles hoarder, this is your home.
And then there's the big news: American Airlines is finally resuming its JFK to TLV nonstop service on March 28, 2026. They're using a Boeing 777-200ER. It’s a daily flight departing late—around 11:25 PM—which is actually perfect if you want to sleep through the entire Atlantic crossing and wake up just as you're hitting the Mediterranean coast.
Why the Airport Choice Matters (JFK vs. EWR)
New Yorkers love to argue about airports. For Tel Aviv, it actually matters for your wallet.
- JFK (Kennedy): This is the hub for El Al, Delta, and soon American. Because there are more airlines, you often find better "flash sales" here.
- EWR (Newark): This is United territory. If you live in Manhattan or Jersey, it’s closer, but you’re often at the mercy of United’s pricing unless you hop on an El Al flight from Terminal B.
What it Really Costs in 2026
Stop looking for $400 round-trip nonstops. They don't exist anymore.
Currently, a "good" price for a direct economy seat is hovering around $950 to $1,200. If you find something under $900, book it immediately. Don't "think about it." It’ll be gone by the time you finish your bagel.
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If you're willing to suffer a bit, you can go the "stopover route." Airlines like Virgin Atlantic (via London), Ithad (via Abu Dhabi), or Turkish Airlines (if they're currently operating the route) can bring that price down to the $650–$800 range. But you have to ask yourself: is saving $300 worth turning a 10-hour flight into a 19-hour odyssey? For some, yes. For most, no.
March is looking like the sweet spot for 2026. Data shows prices dip significantly before the Passover rush hits in April. If you can time your trip for the first two weeks of March, you're likely to save a few hundred bucks.
The Security Factor: It’s Not Just a Metal Detector
Flying to Israel isn't like flying to London.
You’ll encounter the "questioning." Even at JFK or Newark, El Al has its own dedicated security teams. They will ask you why you’re going, who you’re seeing, and if you packed your own bags. They aren't being rude; it’s a highly effective behavioral screening process.
Pro tip: Just tell the truth. If you’re going for a wedding, say it. If you’re going for business, say it. Trying to be "cool" or vague just gets you a one-way ticket to a private room for a more "intimate" bag search.
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Timing the Ten Hours
The flight over is usually about 10 hours and 15 minutes. The flight back? That’s the killer. Because of the headwinds, you’re looking at nearly 12 hours.
- Eastbound (NYC to TLV): Usually leaves late afternoon or night. You arrive in the morning or afternoon. Try to stay awake until 8:00 PM Israel time to beat the jet lag.
- Westbound (TLV to NYC): Usually leaves around midnight or early morning. You arrive in New York the same morning. These flights feel eternal.
Beyond the Basics: The "hidden" options
Did you know Arkia is now a player? The smaller Israeli airline has been making moves with transatlantic links. It’s often overlooked, which means you can sometimes snag a seat when the big three are sold out.
Also, watch the aircraft types. United is flying the 787-10, which is basically a giant flying humidor—it keeps the air more humid, so you don't feel like a piece of beef jerky when you land. American’s 777-200ER is an older bird, but some people prefer the 2-4-2 or 3-3-3 layout depending on the configuration.
Actionable Steps for Your 2026 Booking
If you're planning to book right now, follow this sequence to avoid overpaying:
- Set a Google Flights alert for both JFK and EWR. Do not limit yourself to one airport.
- Check American Airlines' new route availability. Since they just relaunched, they’ve been known to drop "award seats" (miles) at a lower rate to fill the planes for the first few months.
- Book 3–4 months out. The "last minute deal" for Israel is a myth. Prices only go up as the plane fills with tour groups and families.
- Check the Jewish Calendar. If you accidentally book during Sukkot or Passover, you will pay triple. Always check the dates before you input your credit card.
The route is busy, the security is tight, and the hummus in the El Al lounge is surprisingly decent. Just get the flight booked so you can focus on more important things—like which beach in Tel Aviv has the best chairs.