New European Routes Launch from Ben Gurion Airport

Several airlines are launching new direct flights from Ben Gurion Airport to popular European destinations, expanding travel options for Israelis. Bluebird Airways will commence three weekly flights from Tel Aviv to Bologna starting September 17, 2026. The airline will also introduce direct flights to Rome and Naples on the same date.

Wizz Air is increasing its flight frequency to Italy, adding services to Venice, Catania, Rome, Milan, and Naples. According to the Gulliver travel agency, by autumn, including the Jewish holidays, there will be direct flights from Tel Aviv to at least 11 Italian cities, including Verona, Bari, Palermo, and Cagliari. El Al, Arkia, and Israir are also continuing to operate flights to Italian destinations.

Data from the Israel Airports Authority shows that Italy was a destination for approximately 640,000 passengers from Israel between January and July 2026, accounting for 7.5% of Ben Gurion Airport's total passenger traffic. Rome and Milan remain the most popular cities, followed by Catania, Verona, and Naples. Experts estimate the average round-trip ticket price for direct flights to be around $350, though actual costs may vary.

Passenger traffic at Ben Gurion Airport traditionally increases significantly with the start of the autumn Jewish holidays. To streamline pre-flight procedures, passengers are advised to confirm their departure terminal in advance, complete online check-in, and use self-service kiosks for baggage tag printing.