Arkia Launches First Direct Flights From Israel to Madeira

Israeli airline Arkia launched its first-ever direct flight from Tel Aviv to Madeira, a Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean, on Tuesday. The service, initially operating three flights per week in cooperation with Millennium, is currently available only for group bookings made through travel agents.

Arkia is evaluating the possibility of expanding the service to individual travelers by 2027, depending on demand. The inaugural flight utilized an Airbus A321 and had a flight time of approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes. The destination, known for its dramatic landscapes, steep cliffs, and hiking trails, is located west of Morocco.

The Madeira airport, named after native son Cristiano Ronaldo, is considered one of Europe's most challenging to land at due to its location between the sea and mountains, and frequent winds. Arkia pilots have completed the specialized training required for landings at the airport.

Madeira, an archipelago, is described as a nature lover's paradise, featuring green mountains, lush forests, waterfalls, and coastal towns. Its mild climate makes it suitable for outdoor activities year-round. A key attraction is the network of walking trails along ancient water channels called Levadas.

For those seeking relaxation, Madeira offers natural swimming pools formed by lava rocks in Porto Moniz and the capital Funchal, with its picturesque streets, markets, and botanical gardens. The island was recently recognized as the trendiest global destination for 2026 by TripAdvisor.