Arkia to add new Dreamliner flights, Airbus A330 to Tel Aviv-New York route

Arkia Airlines is expanding and upgrading its Tel Aviv-New York route, responding to significant demand and customer requests for a higher-quality travel experience. The airline will introduce additional flights on Mondays and Wednesdays throughout August and September, utilizing a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner operated by Italian airline Neos.

This Dreamliner aircraft will accommodate 345 passengers across economy and premium cabins and will offer paid Wi-Fi. Following this initial expansion, Arkia will deploy a Hi Fly-operated Airbus A330-300 on the route starting September 11. This A330 will feature 249 seats, including 46 in business class and 203 in economy, with an Israeli crew present on each flight.

The airline stated that this increased capacity and aircraft upgrade are direct responses to heightened demand for flights to New York. The move is intended to bolster Arkia's premium services on what it considers its flagship route to the United States. This strategic enhancement aims to improve overall passenger comfort and service standards for travelers on this long-haul journey. The expansion also builds upon Arkia's January interline agreement with JetBlue, which facilitates connections for passengers arriving at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport to various destinations across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean.