Israeli Airlines Return to Marrakech, Flight Prices Drop
Translated & summarized from Globes by baba
Israeli airlines Sun D'Or, Israir, and Arkia are increasing direct flights to Marrakech this winter, leading to a drop in average ticket prices. Sun D'Or's entry is expected to further boost competition on the route.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Sun D'Or will launch direct Tel Aviv-Marrakech flights this winter.
- Israir faced permit issues but will continue operating the route.
- Average flight prices to Marrakech have decreased in November.
- Competition is increasing with multiple Israeli airlines serving the route.
- Consumers should consider baggage fees when comparing prices.
Direct flights between Tel Aviv and Marrakech are set to increase significantly this winter with the addition of Sun D'Or, a subsidiary of El Al, to the route. This comes after Israir, which resumed service in September, faced a temporary hurdle in obtaining necessary operating permits. Diplomatic intervention, including from the Israeli embassy in Morocco, ultimately secured the approvals for Israir to continue its flights.
Arkia also recently returned to the route, meaning that by mid-November, both Israir and Arkia will be operating, followed by Sun D'Or. A review of current prices by lastminute.co.il indicates a decrease in average fares for the first half of November compared to October. Arkia's average price dropped from $1,214 to $1,011 (about 17%), while Israir's fell from $960 to $852 (about 11%). These prices do not include checked baggage.
Despite the increased service, flight availability remains limited on certain days. Passengers may need to combine one-way flights from different airlines to find suitable itineraries. Sun D'Or has advertised a launch price starting at $599 round trip, though this is an introductory offer and not directly comparable to the average prices of the other carriers.
Assaf Greenberg, Marketing Vice President at lastminute.co.il, noted that Marrakech is becoming a more competitive market after a period of limited direct flight options. He anticipates further price adjustments as competition grows, advising consumers to consider the final cost including baggage and ticket conditions, not just the initial search price. Baggage fees in October were estimated at around $103 for checked and $54 for carry-on with Israir, and $174 for checked and $98 for carry-on with Arkia.
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