Israir secures FAA approval for Tel Aviv-New York flights

Israir has received final regulatory approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to operate scheduled commercial flights between Tel Aviv and New York. This marks the final step in the airline’s authorization process, following previous clearances from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Israel Civil Aviation Authority.

The airline intends to operate nonstop service between Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) using Airbus A330-200 widebody aircraft. While Israir had initially targeted October 19 for the launch of its first flight, the completion of the FAA process may allow for an earlier start.

The expansion aims to increase competition on the transatlantic route, which is currently dominated by El Al. The move follows the entry of another Israeli carrier, Arkia, into the New York market in early 2025. Ticket sales are expected to begin soon, though specific schedules and fares have not yet been published.