An Arkia Israeli Airlines Embraer ERJ-195 operating a flight from Tel Aviv, Israel to Larnaca, Cyprus made a precautionary return to Tel Aviv after a cockpit window developed cracks on 18 August 2024.
Arkia flight IZ163, an Embraer ERJ-195 bound for Larnaca International Airport (LCA) reported suffering cracks to one of the cockpit windows shortly after takeoff.
Arkia IZ163 Tel Aviv-Larnaca
The flight was on climb out of Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) when the incident occurred. Flight crew immediately initiated a descent and a direct return was made to the origin airport.
The aircraft subsequently landed without incident. A replacement aircraft was mustered to conduct the onwards service to Larnaca.
Flight Details
Flight data shows that flight IZ163 made a departure out of Ben Gurion Airport at 0930 local time on 18 August.
The flight had set course and was part way between Tel Aviv and Cyprus when the incident occurred. The flight crew discontinued the climb at flight level FL240 (24,000 feet) before making a descent and return.
The aircraft conducting the IZ163 service to Larnaca International Airport was an Embraer ERJ-195, registered 4X-EMC. This is an 8.2-year-old regional aircraft belonging to the carrier Arkia Israeli Airlines. It has been an operational service with the airline since its initial delivery from the factory in June 2016.
Arkia Israeli Airlines is a prominent carrier in Israel, known for its domestic and international flights. Founded in 1949, the airline has a long history of serving the Israeli market and connecting the country to various destinations worldwide.
Key Points:
- Domestic and International Flights: Arkia operates a network of domestic and international routes, serving both popular tourist destinations and business hubs.
- Fleet: The airline maintains a fleet of 5 aircraft – 2 Airbus A321neo aircraft and 3 Embraer ERJ-195 jets.
- Hubs: The airline operates from major airports in Israel, including Ben Gurion International Airport and Ramon Airport.
Click the banner to subscribe to our weekly Emergencies and Incidents newsletter.
Click the photo to join our WhatsApp channel so then you can stay up to date with everything going on in the aviation industry!