Introduction to the New Arkia-TechAir Service
Arkia Israeli Airlines, the second-largest airline in Israel, has taken a significant step to expand its international presence by introducing direct flights between Tel Aviv and New York JFK. This service, starting on February 9, 2024, is a strategic collaboration with TechAir, a not-for-profit organization aimed at facilitating travel for Israeli technology sectors. TechAir serves as a platform that connects Israeli entrepreneurs, investors, startup founders, and venture capitalists who require frequent travel to the United States for business engagements.
Flight Details and Aircraft Information
The direct flights will operate three times weekly from Tel-Aviv Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) to New York-JFK Airport (JFK). The flights will utilize an Airbus A330-900neo aircraft, leased from the Spanish-Portuguese charter airline Iberojet. This modern aircraft accommodates 371 passengers and is well-equipped for long-haul journeys. The flights are scheduled to depart Tel Aviv on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and will continue until at least May 2025.
Pricing and Booking Information
Travelers looking to book this new route can find tickets starting at $1,199 for economy class. This price includes a checked luggage allowance, selected seating, and meals. Reservations can be made directly through the Arkia website, ensuring ease of booking for all passengers.
Market Demand and Competitive Landscape
The introduction of this route comes at a time when travel demand between Israel and the US is increasing, while available capacity has decreased. Major American carriers such as United, Delta, and American have suspended their direct flights due to regional instabilities, notably Israel’s conflicts with Hamas and Hezbollah. This reduction in direct flights left El Al as the sole provider, which resulted in increased fares and limited options for travelers, who then had to resort to connecting flights through European cities, adding both time and inconvenience.
Special Provisions for the Tech Sector
Understanding the specific needs of the tech community, Arkia will reserve a number of seats specifically for tech industry professionals. This ensures that high-demand travel needs are met, facilitating critical face-to-face business meetings. TechAir, through its mission, emphasizes the importance of affordable and flexible air travel to mitigate the economic and logistical impacts caused by limited flight availability between Israel and New York.
Operational Logistics and Collaboration
Despite Arkia’s strategy to launch this route, the airline does not possess aircraft capable of handling the 5,677-mile journey on its own. Therefore, Arkia has partnered with Iberojet, which provides the necessary aircraft along with pilots and some cabin crew. Arkia will supplement these crews with additional cabin staff to provide language assistance and enhance the cultural comfort of its passengers during these transatlantic flights.