Etihad resumes Tel Aviv flights, offers US routes via Abu Dhabi
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- Etihad restarts flights to Tel Aviv with US connections
- Other airlines expand routes as market reopens
Etihad Airways has resumed flights to Tel Aviv, restoring connections to the United States via Abu Dhabi after a suspension triggered by regional conflict.
Operations were halted on February 28, 2026, following a sharp escalation involving the United States, ‘Israel’, and Iran, when the two allies attacked Iran leading to widespread airspace closures across the Middle East. At the peak of the disruption, a significant share of regional departures was grounded, while rising security risks forced airlines to suspend routes.
The resumption follows a two-week ceasefire announced on April 8, allowing authorities to reopen key air corridors and enabling international carriers to gradually return to Ben Gurion Airport.
Etihad relaunched the route with two daily flights and plans to expand to four by May using Airbus A321LR aircraft. The airline is offering onward travel to US cities including New York, Chicago, and Washington, with connection times of just over two hours.
A key feature of the service is the US preclearance facility at Zayed International Airport, allowing passengers to complete immigration procedures before departure and arrive in the United States as domestic travelers.
Introductory fares start at around $1,000, with additional connections available to Asian destinations such as Bangkok, Shanghai, and Tokyo.
The return of Etihad and other carriers - such as TUS Airways and Blue Bird Airways - signals a gradual recovery in regional aviation, though analysts say flight schedules remain dependent on the durability of the current ceasefire and overall security conditions.
