Israeli low-cost carrier Israir has secured initial approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to launch direct flights between Tel Aviv and New York starting in 2026.
This move promises to shake up the competitive landscape, offering travelers more affordable options on a high-demand route.
With final regulatory clearances pending, Israir is gearing up to challenge El Al’s dominance and address a critical capacity shortfall in U.S.-Israel air travel.
A New Player in Transatlantic Travel
Israir’s temporary two-year foreign air carrier permit marks a pivotal step toward launching six weekly nonstop roundtrip flights. These will operate between Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
The airline aims to begin service by Passover 2026, a peak travel period for Israeli and diaspora communities.
However, the launch depends on additional approvals from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), expected by June 2025.
To operate the long-haul route, Israir plans to lease an Airbus A330-200, as its current fleet of eight Airbus A320s lacks the range for transatlantic flights.
The flights will be managed by Israir’s own crew, ensuring operational control and brand consistency. This strategic expansion builds on Israir’s experience as a domestic and European carrier, owned by the Rami Levy Group since 2021.
Breaking El Al’s Monopoly
The Tel Aviv-New York route has long been dominated by El Al, with limited competition from United and Delta.
Recently, fares have soared due to a 42% seat capacity drop since October 2023, triggered by regional conflicts and U.S. carriers suspending operations.
Israir’s entry, following rival Arkia’s New York launch in February 2025, introduces a second low-cost option, promising to drive down ticket prices. As the fifth carrier on this corridor, Israir targets leisure travelers, business passengers, and the Jewish diaspora seeking affordable transatlantic travel.
Israir’s low-cost model focuses on competitive pricing without compromising service quality. By offering six weekly flights, the airline aims to capture a significant share of the market.
This will particularly apply during high-demand seasons like Passover. This move aligns with growing calls for increased competition to make travel more accessible for families and budget-conscious passengers.
A Step Toward Recovery
The U.S.-Israel aviation market has faced challenges since the onset of regional tensions, with many foreign carriers halting flights.
Israir’s planned service is a strong step toward restoring capacity and meeting pent-up demand. The airline previously operated New York flights from 2004 to 2009 but suspended them due to high fuel costs. With improved market conditions and a leased widebody aircraft, Israir is poised for a successful reentry.
Conclusion
For passengers, Israir’s approval signals more choices and potentially lower fares. The new flight service provides a significant boost for transatlantic travel.
Operating on a low-cost model, the focus on affordability could reshape the Tel Aviv-New York route, making it easier for families, students, and professionals to connect across continents.
As Israir finalizes its preparations, travelers can look forward to a potentially more competitive and accessible transatlantic market by 2026.
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