In a significant development for US-Israel air travel, Israel's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has initiated talks with US regulators to enable Israir Airlines to operate direct flights to New York. The airline is simultaneously exploring options to wet-lease two wide-body aircraft for these operations, though the approval process could take several months. The carrier aims to launch direct service between Tel Aviv and Newark during the upcoming winter season.
The airline faces several hurdles before finalizing these plans. The lease agreement remains unsigned, and multiple complex conditions must be satisfied, including securing necessary US regulatory approvals and addressing challenges related to Israel's aviation services law regarding Israir's proposed expansion.
Under the proposed wet-lease structure, Israir would utilize aircraft and crews from a foreign carrier while operating flights under its own designation. Though negotiations continue, Israel's Transportation Ministry has granted preliminary approval from the Israeli perspective, marking an initial step in the complex process of establishing direct US routes.
The CAA has commenced discussions with US authorities to secure necessary approvals – a process that typically spans three months under normal circumstances. Officials are working to expedite these procedures, seeking rapid clearance for security requirements, landing slots, and other essential permits. This represents the beginning of an intricate process requiring multiple regulatory approvals and successful lease negotiations, suggesting a potentially extended timeline before implementation.
In the current landscape, El Al is the sole carrier maintaining direct New York service following the withdrawal of US airlines from the Israeli market. American Airlines suspended its Israel routes through September 2025, while United Airlines indefinitely halted services, and Delta suspended operations through March 2025.
Transportation Minister Miri Regev endorsed the initiative: "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."
