Israel's Arkia expands to North America with new Airbus A330-900neo route
Arkia will debut in the transatlantic market starting February 2025, becoming the second Israeli airline to connect Tel Aviv and New York with nonstop flights. The service, operated with a leased Airbus A330-900neo, will feature round-trip fares starting at $1,199
Arkia enters the transatlantic market with nonstop flights between Tel Aviv and New York, becoming the second Israeli airline, after EL AL, to operate flights between these cities. To launch this service, the airline will lease an Airbus A330-900neo, according to Arkia’s CEO, Oz Berlowitz, who disclosed the plan to Israeli media.
The flights are scheduled to begin on February 8, 2025, with round-trip tickets starting at $1,199, which include luggage, two meals, and beverages. According to the Israel Airports Authority, over 1.2 million passengers traveled between Tel Aviv and the New York metropolitan area in 2023, making it the busiest connection in terms of seat capacity between Israel and North America.
Due to the ongoing conflicts involving Hamas and Hezbollah, U.S. airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines suspended their flights on this route, citing passenger and crew safety concerns. Currently, EL AL is the only airline serving this connection, operating from both John F. Kennedy Airport and Newark Liberty Airport. Arkia's entry is expected to fill this gap in transatlantic travel.
"I commend Arkia for positively responding to our proposal and entering the U.S. and Canadian aviation markets. This initiative will increase flight availability to North America, benefiting Israeli citizens, tourists, and businesspeople by offering affordable prices. The State of Israel will support airlines that choose to operate direct flights to the United States, fostering real competition. This means more flights, diversified options for passengers, and lower prices," said Miri Regev, Israel's Minister of Transport.
Comentarios
Para comentar, debés estar registrado
Por favor, iniciá sesión