Israir announced FAA approval on August 19, 2026, to begin selling tickets for flights to the United States. The airline expects to launch its first U.S. flights on October 19 following the Sukkot holiday.
This development introduces new competition to the Tel Aviv-New York route currently served by El Al and Arkia. The entry of a third carrier is anticipated to reduce ticket prices on this key international corridor.
The move marks a significant shift for the Israeli aviation market. It potentially ends El Al’s long-standing near-monopoly on direct flights between Israel and the United States.