Economy15:32 · 1h ago

Israir Gains Approval to Launch New Wide-Body Flights to New York

Globes

Translated & summarized from Globes by baba

Key points

01Israir received updated approval to operate Airbus A330s to North America, including New York.
02Only FAA approval remains before Israir can launch U.S. flights, joining El Al and Arkia.
03Delta and United will resume flights to Israel next month, increasing options.
04American Airlines postponed its return to Israel until March.
05Israir invested about $85 million in Airbus A330 aircraft for this expansion.
06Other Israeli business updates include new executive appointments and a major port acquisition deal.

In this story

People

Ofer Elyakim, Prof. Shai Shemesh, Prof. Aviv Goldbart, Avishai Allred, Tzipi Kadush, Gad Ze'ev

OrganizationsIsrair Airlines, Civil Aviation Authority, U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration, El Al, Arkia, Delta, United Airlines

PlacesNew York, North America, Israel, Haifa Port

The story · English

Israir Airlines has received updated authorization from Israel's Civil Aviation Authority to operate wide-body aircraft, including flights to North America and the North Atlantic region. This approval allows the airline to deploy its Airbus A330 planes, which it purchased for approximately $85 million, on a new route to New York. This development follows prior approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation, leaving only the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) clearance pending. Once FAA approval is secured, Israir will become the third Israeli airline, alongside El Al and Arkia, to offer flights to the United States.

Meanwhile, American carriers Delta and United are expected to resume flights to Israel next month, significantly increasing flight options. However, American Airlines announced it will delay its return to Israel until March. This intensifying competition on the Israel-New York route comes as Israir prepares to expand its international presence.

In other news, the Israeli retail chain Half Free is hosting "FestiAugust," an in-store alcohol festival running until August 16, featuring discounts and tastings. Additionally, Strauss Group is promoting northern Israel tourism through curated culinary and nature trips involving local businesses.

Several key appointments were announced: Ofer Elyakim became CEO of AI electronics developer Arasal; Prof. Shai Shemesh was named head of orthopedics at Assuta Ashdod Hospital; Prof. Aviv Goldbart took over as director of Saban Children's Hospital at Soroka Medical Center; Avishai Allred was appointed VP of trade and sales at Golan Heights Winery and Galil Mountain Winery; and Tzipi Kadush became professional manager for Western medicinal plants at Bra Plants.

Finally, a $550 million deal is reportedly underway for the acquisition of Gadot Group, a partner in Haifa Port, by manager Gad Ze'ev from Tene Fund and LBH Group. This reflects ongoing strategic economic moves within Israel's business landscape.

Read the original at Globes