Hundreds of Chabad Hasidim Fly Direct Charter to Kazakhstan for Rabbi Levi Yitzchak's Yahrzeit
For the second consecutive year, hundreds of Chabad Hasidim from Israel took a special direct charter flight to Almaty, Kazakhstan, to commemorate the 82nd yahrzeit of Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Schneerson, father of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. The event, held on the 20th of Menachem Av 5786 (August 2026), attracted a record number of participants from around the world to the holy site where Rabbi Levi Yitzchak was exiled, imprisoned, and ultimately passed away due to his efforts to spread Judaism.
The pilgrims arrived starting Wednesday before the Shabbat of preparation, staying in Almaty hotels and participating in organized communal meals and study sessions led by prominent rabbis and emissaries, including Rabbi Yeshaya Elazar Cohen, the chief rabbi of Kazakhstan. On Sunday morning, a rare direct charter flight from Ben Gurion Airport carried hundreds of Hasidim, rabbis, and leaders of the "Tiferet Zekenim Levi Yitzchak" kollels network, founded by the Lubavitcher Rebbe in memory of his father. The flight was operated by Israir Airlines on a modern Airbus A330.
The flight was managed by Rabbis Yehuda Bloi and Yosef Yitzchak Niazov, who coordinated the 24-hour journey with great dedication. Passengers engaged in Torah study and spiritual gatherings during the flight, receiving special study booklets focused on Rabbi Levi Yitzchak's teachings, which blend revealed and hidden aspects of Torah. Upon arrival, participants joined the main event featuring speeches by rabbis and philanthropists Rabbi Avi Shaulzon and Rabbi Levi Laibov, who shared personal connections to the yahrzeit's honoree.
A highlight was the presentation of a certificate of appreciation to Rabbi Levi Laibov by the kollels' leadership. Throughout the night, attendees prayed and celebrated together at the gravesite. Participants praised the organizers for the meticulous planning and warm atmosphere, emphasizing the unity and spiritual elevation experienced. The event continues a decade-long tradition supported by philanthropist Rabbi Avi Shaulzon, who sponsors the annual pilgrimage.
This direct charter flight initiative has significantly eased travel challenges to Kazakhstan, replacing arduous multi-connection journeys with a fast, comfortable, and spiritually enriching experience. Organizers hope the event will strengthen bonds within the Chabad community worldwide and inspire continued dedication to Rabbi Levi Yitzchak's legacy.
