Delta Air Lines and EL AL Israel Airlines have recently announced a significant enhancement in their partnership, marking the commencement of a comprehensive codeshare agreement. This strategic collaboration, set to begin on December 18, 2023, aims to provide an enriched travel experience for passengers flying between the Americas and Tel Aviv, starting from January 1, 2024.
Connecting Major U.S. Cities to Tel Aviv: A Closer Look at Flight Options
Under this new agreement, customers of Delta Air Lines will gain the convenience of connecting seamlessly to Tel Aviv through EL AL’s nonstop services. These services are available from major U.S. cities including New York-JFK, Newark, Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. Similarly, EL AL passengers will benefit from Delta’s extensive network. This includes the potential reinstatement of non-stop flights to Tel Aviv, along with up to 280 same-day connections across Delta’s U.S. hubs. Key connecting cities include New York-JFK, Boston, Los Angeles, with onward destinations such as Atlanta, Washington DC, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Seattle, Dallas, and Toronto.
Reciprocal Elite Member Perks: Enhancing the Frequent Flyer Experience
Moreover, the collaboration extends to the frequent flyer programs of both airlines. Passengers can now earn and redeem miles interchangeably on Delta’s SkyMiles and EL AL’s Matmid programs. Beginning January 15, top tier members of these programs will enjoy reciprocal benefits. These perks include preferred seating, priority check-in and boarding, additional baggage allowances, and lounge access where available.
This agreement signifies a substantial step in strengthening the aviation ties between North America and Israel, offering passengers improved connectivity, enhanced travel flexibility, and rewarding loyalty program benefits.
“Delta remains steadfast in our long-time commitment to serving consumers and businesses who depend on convenient, high-quality air service to and from Tel Aviv,” said Alain Bellemare, Delta President – International. Through our codeshare agreement with EL AL, we will offer customers more convenient travel options between North America and Israel.”
