Flight Prices to Europe Plummet After Holidays

Airfare prices from Israel to popular European destinations are expected to drop significantly in the weeks following the High Holidays, with round-trip tickets to Rome falling from approximately $620 to $160, a 75% decrease. Similar price drops are anticipated for flights to Budapest, Athens, Catania, and Tbilisi. This seasonal price fluctuation is attributed to a decrease in demand after the holiday period, when many families travel.

Starting in mid-October, demand typically wanes, coinciding with the return and expansion of services by foreign airlines to Israel. Increased flight capacity leads to lower prices as airlines compete to fill seats. Low-cost carriers like Wizz Air are expanding their operations, and other European airlines are resuming or increasing flight frequencies, particularly on shorter routes like Rome, Budapest, and Athens, where competition is fierce.

The timing of booking is less critical than the travel dates themselves. Savings of hundreds of dollars per ticket can be achieved by shifting travel from the Sukkot holiday period to mid-October. While waiting a day or two before booking might offer minimal savings, flexibility with travel dates is the primary driver of lower fares.

Long-haul routes, such as to New York, also see price adjustments. The return of airlines like Delta and United, alongside existing carriers like El Al and Arkia, increases seat availability and competition. While holiday travel to New York remains expensive due to early bookings, prices can drop below $1,000 round-trip by December.

Travelers should consider the final price after adding potential fees for baggage, seat selection, and other services, especially with low-cost carriers. Despite these additions, the substantial base fare reduction often results in significant overall savings. The continued presence and number of foreign airlines operating in Israel will be a key factor in maintaining competitive pricing, as past security concerns have led to flight cancellations and subsequent price increases.