Competition returns to Ben-Gurion and hits ticket prices
Competition in the Israeli air travel market to the US is intensifying, which has already begun to impact ticket prices. After a long period of high prices, some direct flights from Ben-Gurion Airport to New York for early 2027 are being offered for less than $800 per person. The changes are linked to the return of American carriers Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, as well as increased competition from Israeli carriers El Al, Israir, and Arkia.
Competition in the Israeli air travel market to the US is intensifying, which has already begun to impact ticket prices. After a long period of high prices, some direct flights from Ben-Gurion Airport to New York for early 2027 are being offered for less than $800 per person. The changes are linked to the gradual restoration of supply on one of the most sought-after international routes from Israel. American carriers Delta Air Lines and United Airlines are returning to the Israeli market, while Israeli carriers El Al, Israir, and Arkia are also increasing competition on the route. The increase in the number of carriers is bringing thousands of passenger seats back to the market, a shortage of which was previously a factor in high flight costs. The first noticeable changes are expected as early as winter. According to examples provided by Gulliver, a Delta Air Lines flight from January 10 to 15, 2027, can be found for $878 per person. The price drop is even more noticeable on some dates in late winter and early spring: Delta tickets for the period from February 25 to March 3 are offered from $773. In March, options under $800 also appear from El Al. Gulliver CEO Tamar Garzon attributes the change primarily to the return of competition. However, prices of $773–$878 apply to specific dates and may change as planes fill up.