Israir Launches Direct Flights to New York

Israeli airline Israir will commence direct regular flights between Tel Aviv and New York on September 15th, becoming the fifth carrier to operate on this significant route. Company management confirmed to The Jerusalem Post that ticket sales for the new destination are now open. The inaugural flight from Ben Gurion International Airport to New York is scheduled for September 15th, with the return flight from the U.S. to Israel set for September 17th.

Initially, Israir plans to operate three flights per week, with the intention to increase frequency to daily flights by the end of October. This expansion into long-haul travel is facilitated by the acquisition of two Airbus A330 wide-body aircraft. The total investment in purchasing these planes, along with technical upgrades and spare parts, amounts to approximately $85 million. The company emphasized a gradual integration of the new aircraft type to ensure maximum safety and service efficiency.

Israir's entry into the U.S. market marks its return to long-haul operations after several years and coincides with a resurgence in activity from foreign airlines in Israel. The airline will directly compete with existing carriers on the North American route, including El Al and Arkia.