Israel’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has taken a major step toward enhancing US-Israel air travel by initiating discussions with US regulators to allow Israir Airlines to operate direct flights to New York. As part of this effort, Israir is considering wet-leasing two wide-body aircraft for the route. However, the process of obtaining necessary approvals might extend over several months. The airline is targeting the upcoming winter season to begin direct flights between Tel Aviv and Newark.
Before Israir can finalize these plans, it must overcome several obstacles. The lease agreement for the aircraft has not yet been signed, and the airline must meet various regulatory requirements. These include securing US regulatory approvals and navigating the complexities of Israel’s aviation services law, which affects Israir’s expansion plans.
The proposed wet-lease arrangement involves Israir using aircraft and crew from an international carrier while operating the flights under its own brand. Although discussions are ongoing, the Israeli Transportation Ministry has already given its preliminary approval, representing an important first step in the complex process of establishing direct flights to the US.
The CAA has started working with US authorities to obtain the required approvals, a process that typically takes around three months under normal conditions. Efforts are being made to accelerate these steps, which include meeting security protocols, securing landing rights, and obtaining various other permits. This marks the beginning of a detailed and multi-faceted approval and negotiation process, indicating that the launch of these flights may take some time.
Currently, El Al is the only airline offering direct service to New York after US carriers pulled out of the Israeli market. American Airlines has suspended its routes to Israel until at least September 2025, United Airlines has stopped its services indefinitely, and Delta has paused its operations until March 2025.
Transportation Minister Miri Regev expressed her support for the initiative, stating, “I thank the CAA for their thorough work that enables significant relief in the flight crisis created due to the war. Israeli companies are demonstrating national responsibility in their mobilization during this challenging period. I commend Rami Levy and Israir Airlines for their initiative to operate a New York route, a step that will contribute to healthy competition, expanded options for the public, and lower flight prices.”
{Matzav.com}