AVIATION
July 2026
BRIDGING NATIONS: THAILAND AND ISRAEL MOVE TO EXPAND DIRECT FLIGHT ROUTES AND BOOST TOURISM
Flying to the Mediterranean Hub: Arkia to Resume Direct Morocco-Israel Flights This Summer
Expanding travel options to the region, the Israeli carrier announces twice-weekly flights between Marrakech and Tel Aviv starting this August, unlocking a highly sought-after cultural route for global travelers.
T ravelers planning a multi- destination journey through Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East will soon have a major new flight connection to utilize. Israeli airline Arkia has announced it is officially resuming its direct flight route between Marrakech and Tel Aviv this summer. Beginning August 24, the carrier will operate twice-weekly flights connecting the two vibrant cultural hubs, with one-way fares starting at $329. The resumption marks the return of a highly popular route that had been suspended for nearly three years, offering international tourists a seamless way to bridge their North African exploration with a trip to Israel. The renewal of this route highlights the deep historical and cultural ties between the two destinations, making it a highly anticipated comeback for the regional tourism industry. Tourism experts note that Morocco—and Marrakech in particular—has historically been one of the most successful and sought-
after destinations connected to the Israeli market, largely driven by the estimated one million Israelis of Moroccan descent who frequently travel for heritage and roots tourism. In 2022 alone, roughly 200,000 travelers journeyed between the two nations, which formalized their diplomatic relations in 2020 as part of the historic Abraham Accords. While the broader regional aviation landscape remains dynamic and subject to security developments, industry leaders view Arkia’s announcement—backed by official security approval—as a strong signal of renewed confidence in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern travel corridors. For global tourists looking to experience the ancient history, world-class culinary scenes, and diverse landscapes of both Morocco and Israel in a single itinerary, the return of these direct flights provides a timely, efficient, and welcome new transit option for the upcoming late-summer travel season.
A strategic meeting between Thai and Israeli officials highlights plans to introduce new flight destinations, promote sustainable travel, and cater to the unique preferences of independent Israeli globetrotters.
T he Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has officially identified Israel as one of its most vital and high-quality tourism markets, prompting a new wave of collaboration to expand direct flight connections. In a high-level strategic meeting between TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool and Israeli Ambassador to Thailand Dr. Alona Fisher- Kamm, both nations agreed to advance several major initiatives. The cornerstone of these discussions revolves around introducing direct flights from Israel to additional Thai destinations, expanding far beyond the current El Al and Arkia routes that service Bangkok and Phuket. To support this expansion, tourism boards are gearing up to launch joint marketing campaigns showcasing Thailand’s growing portfolio of sustainable travel experiences. The strategy
also includes hosting Israeli journalists and travel agents for firsthand showcases of the country’s diverse regional attractions and cultural events. These efforts aim to smoothly guide travelers to uncharted provinces, matching the growing demand for unique, authentic experiences. The push for enhanced connectivity is firmly backed by impressive tourism data. Since the beginning of the year, 181,872 Israeli travelers have visited Thailand, and the Tourism Authority projects that total arrivals will reach approximately 442,000 by the end of 2026. This anticipated surge represents a remarkable milestone, surpassing last year’s figures despite recent disruptions to regional air travel. What makes the Israeli market particularly lucrative for the Thai hospitality sector is the depth of their stays.
22 • www.itn.co.il
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