AVIATION
November 2026
The British flagship carrier’s return to Ben Gurion Airport marks a major boost for international travel, expanding seamless global connections for tourists and business travelers visiting the Holy Land BRITISH AIRWAYS SET TO RESUME DAILY FLIGHTS TO TEL AVIV AS MAJOR CARRIERS RETURN TO ISRAEL
I nternational travel to Israel is taking another significant step forward with the announcement that British Airways is resuming its daily flight service between London and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport. As one of Europe’s premier airlines, British Airways’ return provides a seamless bridge for global travelers looking to explore Israel’s rich cultural heritage, dynamic culinary scene, and sun-soaked Mediterranean beaches. Operating out of London-a primary hub for
transatlantic and global travel-the route offers international tourists expanded connectivity, easier connections, and greater flexibility when planning their trips to Israel. Industry experts view the return of major legacy carriers as a strong vote of confidence in Israel’s tourism recovery and global air connectivity. Travel leaders emphasize that the presence of global airlines not only simplifies itinerary planning for overseas visitors but also I srael’s Ministry of Tourism is stepping up its global outreach with a targeted strategy aimed at accelerating the return of international visitors. Leading the initiative at the prestigious IFTM Top Resa travel trade show in Paris, Director General Michael Itzhakov spearheaded high- level discussions with major European airlines, tour operators, and government tourism officials. The push focuses heavily on expanding direct flight capacity, reinforcing long-standing travel partnerships, and ensuring Israel remains a top destination for European
fosters healthy competition, offering travelers better choices and more flexible options. With London serving as a vital gateway connecting North America, Europe, and Asia to Tel Aviv, the daily service re-establishes a crucial transatlantic conduit for both leisure tourists and business travelers returning to the region.British Airways joins a growing list of major international airlines expanding their service to Israel, following the recent return of U.S. carriers travelers. Central to the meetings were strategic talks with aviation giants Air France and EasyJet, alongside discussions with French Tourism Minister Serge Papin, Cyprus Tourism Minister Costas Koumis, and Uzbek Tourism Ministry Director General Shakboz Datsikhanov. Expanding flight connectivity remains a cornerstone of Israel’s tourism recovery plan. Direct air travel between Paris and Israel currently stands at 57 weekly flights, with frequency expected to surpass 70 weekly
Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, alongside Air India’s planned flight resumptions. This momentum reflects a broader, steady revival across Israel’s tourism landscape, reassuring travelers worldwide that the country is increasingly accessible and ready to welcome guests. Whether you are planning a pilgrimage, a coastal retreat in Tel Aviv, or a historical journey through Jerusalem, traveling to Israel is becoming
smoother and more convenient than ever.
France and Europe in Focus: Israel Moves to Expand Direct Flights and Boost International Tourism
market and the second-largest globally after the United States. Following strong visitor numbers in recent years— including over 176,000 arrivals from France in 2025 and tens of thousands already visiting in 2026—the Ministry is focusing efforts where cultural ties and travel demand remain exceptionally high. At the conference, Israel showcased a dynamic 72-square-meter pavilion featuring key industry leaders such as El Al, Tel Aviv Global, the Fattal Hotel Group, and Ortra. The interactive space offered business networking alongside authentic Israeli culinary experiences and fun cultural activities.
Ministry of Tourism Meets with Air France, EasyJet, and Global Aviation Leaders at IFTM to Expand Direct Flights and Roll Out New Campaigns
direct flights during the upcoming winter season. France represents Israel’s largest European source
42 • www.itn.co.il
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