Israir Launches Four New European Routes for Summer 2027

Israir Airlines announced on Monday its expansion plans for the Spring-Summer 2027 season, introducing four new direct routes from Ben Gurion Airport. These new destinations include Split, Croatia; Sarajevo, Bosnia; Bologna, Italy; and Preveza, Greece, none of which currently have direct flights from Israel. This expansion will bring Israir's international offerings to over 41 destinations in 24 countries, in addition to its domestic flights to Eilat, as the airline aims to transport 3 million passengers. The company also intends to increase flight frequencies to existing European and U.S. destinations.

While direct flights to Tokyo and Miami are not yet on the schedule, the launch of the new European routes is contingent on final approvals, which Israir states are in advanced stages. Separately, Air India is set to resume direct flights between Ben Gurion Airport and New Delhi on December 1, 2026, after a period of suspension. The Indian carrier plans to operate five weekly flights on this route, with flight times of approximately six hours to India and seven hours on the return leg. Tickets are expected to start at $638 one-way.

The resumption of the Tel Aviv-New Delhi route is particularly significant as there are currently no other direct flights between Israel and India. El Al has not operated this route since 2020, making Air India the sole planned operator. This direct connection will significantly shorten travel time for passengers compared to routes with layovers and provides a direct link to New Delhi, a hub for onward travel within India and to other Asian destinations. Air India had previously suspended flights following the outbreak of the war in October 2023, briefly resumed service in March 2024, but then suspended the route again in April due to regional security developments.