Arkia CEO Oz Berlowitz on Monday announced the inauguration of direct flights between Tel Aviv and New York. The route will be operated in partnership with TechAir, a company established by Israel’s High-Tech Forum.
According to the announcement, the inaugural flight is scheduled for Feb. 8. Round-trip ticket prices will start at $1,199, including luggage, two full meals and beverages.
Its direct flight between Tel Aviv and New York will mark the first time the Israeli airline flies to the US.
Flights will leave Ben-Gurion Airport for New York on Motzoei Shabbos at 11:30 p.m. and on Mondays and Wednesdays at noon. Flights from New York will leave on Sundays and Tuesdays at 3 p.m. and on Thursdays at 4 p.m.
Israeli Transport Minister Miri Regev welcomed the move.
“I commend Arkia for positively responding to our proposal and entering the aviation market to the United States and Canada,” she said. “This initiative will expand the availability of flights to North America, benefiting Israeli citizens, tourists and businessmen by providing accessible prices. The State of Israel will support airlines that choose to operate direct flights to the United States, fostering real competition. This means more flights, diversified options for passengers and lower prices.” JNS
{Matzav.com}
I booked with Elal for Pesach for 3 people, and I just looked up Arkia prices, and Arkia is way more expensive. I must say that competition is good fpr the long run, but not for the short run.