Starting January 1, 2026, Air India will resume direct flights between New Delhi (DEL) and Tel Aviv (TLV). The service will operate five times a week, marking a major leap in connectivity between India and Israel.
Why the Route Matters
The new direct link drastically cuts travel time by eliminating layovers. The route reinforces stronger tourism, business ties and cultural exchange between the two nations. With faster travel, Indian and Israeli travellers gain easier access to each other’s markets and destinations.
Flight Details and Schedule
The service will use Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. From Delhi, the flight departs at 7:00 a.m. and arrives in Tel Aviv at 9:55 a.m. From Tel Aviv, the return leaves at 11:40 a.m. and lands in Delhi at 8:50 p.m. The schedule is set Sunday through Thursday to enable onward connections.
Economic and Tourism Impacts
For India, more Israeli travellers mean growth for hospitality, leisure, and business travel sectors. Israel expects a boost from Indian visitors keen to explore history, culture, spiritual sites and modern urban life. At the same time, Indian outbound tourism gains a fresh route and richer choices.
Business links also benefit. Direct flights facilitate cross-border meetings, inventory movements, trade exhibitions and collaboration in technology, innovation and culture. The enhanced access signals a strengthening of the strategic partnership between India and Israel.
Additional Route Plans by Israeli Carrier
Meanwhile, Israeli carrier Arkia Airlines is exploring direct services to India. Discussions are underway to open routes to Mumbai, Bengaluru and Goa using Airbus A321neo LR jets. This possible expansion adds further momentum to the travel corridor between the two nations.
Tourism Appeal from India to Israel
Israel’s tourism ministry has emphasized the “game-changer” nature of the link. The country is ready to welcome more Indian travellers and highlight its diverse experiences — from the beaches of Tel Aviv, the historic sites of Jerusalem, to unique desert landscapes. Easier access via direct flights should make Israel more accessible and attractive to Indian leisure travellers.
Indian Travel Gains
For Indian tourists, this route opens up a fresh short-haul international destination with rich cultural, historic and modern appeal. Whether visiting for business, pilgrimage, leisure or wellness, the direct flight offers convenience and time-saving. Travel agents are likely to respond with new tour packages and competitive fares.
Strategic Significance
The relaunch of this direct service underscores the evolving air-travel landscape in the region. It not only meets current demand but sets the stage for future growth in tourism and trade between India and Israel. The decision reflects how carriers are using direct connectivity to unlock new markets and travel corridors.
What Travellers Should Know
Passengers should look out for updates on fare launches, schedule confirmations, and visa/entry processes. For Indian travellers heading to Israel, the visa process has become smoother in recent years. For Israeli visitors to India, similar facilitation is expected as travel ties deepen.
Outlook and Conclusion
With Air India restarting direct Delhi–Tel Aviv service in early 2026 and Arkia planning additional India routes, the India–Israel travel corridor is poised for a major boost. The move promises faster travel, new destination possibilities and deeper bilateral engagement in tourism, culture and commerce. For travellers and industry alike, this is a milestone moment.
This development shows how strategic air links can transform tourism profiles, open business opportunities and create lasting connections between nations. With the countdown to January underway, the aviation and travel sectors in both countries are undoubtedly gearing up.
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