Israir Launches Flights to New York, Ticket Sales Open Tonight

Israir, owned by businessman Rami Levy, is set to launch ticket sales tonight for its new flights to New York. The airline has rapidly prepared two wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft for this expansion, completing the acquisition process for approximately $85 million in just three and a half months. The final payment for the two planes was made on May 27, 2026, including service adjustments and spare parts.

Israir has undertaken extensive operational and regulatory preparations, securing over 60 agreements and obtaining necessary approvals from Israeli aviation authorities, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The company has also trained dedicated flight crews for the A330s, while continuing to operate its existing fleet of eight narrow-body Airbus A320s.

The inaugural flight from Tel Aviv to New York is scheduled for September 15, 2026, with the return flight from New York to Israel planned for September 17, 2026. The introduction of the wide-body aircraft will be phased to ensure safe and efficient integration into operations.

To support this expansion, Israir will leverage its Super Fly credit card, enhance commercial agreements, forge strategic partnerships, and expand its maintenance center. In addition to the two self-operated A330s, Israir plans to operate two additional wide-body aircraft through wet leases and aims to introduce a third self-operated wide-body aircraft in the latter half of 2027.

Ticket prices are expected to be high, particularly during the holiday season, with fares starting around $1,900 and potentially higher. Even after the holidays, prices are anticipated to remain elevated, around $1,600.