Another Israeli Airline to Fly the New York-Tel Aviv Route

Israir Airlines is preparing to reintroduce direct flights between Tel Aviv and New York, aiming to commence as early as this summer. This initiative positions Israir as the third Israeli airline to serve this route, following El Al and Arkia, thereby increasing competition and potentially reducing airfare costs for travelers.

Israir has submitted a request to the U.S. Department of Transportation for a foreign air carrier permit, seeking authorization to operate up to six weekly nonstop roundtrip flights between Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv and New York. This development follows Arkia’s recent entry into the U.S. market; in February, Arkia launched its inaugural direct flights to New York, effectively ending El Al’s longstanding exclusivity on this route.

The introduction of additional carriers is anticipated to benefit consumers through more competitive pricing. Currently, Arkia offers nonstop roundtrip flights from Tel Aviv to New York starting at approximately $1,200, whereas similar flights with El Al are priced around $1,800. This price difference underscores the potential for cost savings as competition intensifies.

El Al has adjusted its operations in response to the evolving market dynamics, increasing its weekly round-trip flights between Israel and the U.S. from 34 to 41 across six routes. This move aims to accommodate the sustained demand for travel between the two countries.

The entry of Israir into the Tel Aviv-New York route is expected to enhance travel options and affordability for passengers, fostering a more competitive environment that benefits consumers.