Israel’s national airline, El Al, has brought back direct flights between Tel Aviv and Eilat after more than ten years away from the route. The service kicked off on October 21, 2025, with two daily flights aimed at boosting travel and tourism in the southern resort city.
Flight Details and Schedule
El Al now runs two flights each day on this domestic route. One leaves in the morning, and the other in the evening, making it easy for travelers to plan short trips or quick getaways.
The flights use Boeing 737 aircraft and connect Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv to Ramon Airport in Eilat. This setup adds to the roughly 30 daily operations at Ramon, including services from other carriers like Arkia, Israir, and Air Haifa.
Ticket prices start at 139 Israeli new shekels for a one-way trip, which includes carry-on luggage. Local residents in Eilat and the nearby Eilot area get a special deal with subsidized fares at 99 shekels each way.
Reasons Behind the Comeback
The airline stopped these flights over a decade ago due to high costs and stiff competition from budget carriers. Recent requests from Israel’s Transportation Ministry changed that, pushing El Al to step in and support national travel needs.
This move comes at a time when air travel to and within Israel is picking up again. After pauses caused by regional conflicts, major airlines like United and Delta have announced plans to restart international routes to Tel Aviv in early 2026.
El Al’s leaders see this as part of a bigger effort to connect remote areas. The resumption aligns with government goals to make Eilat more accessible, especially as tourism rebounds from recent global challenges.
- Boosts local economy by increasing visitor numbers to Eilat’s beaches and resorts.
- Helps residents travel to central Israel for work, family, or medical needs.
- Supports Israel’s push for better domestic air links amid growing demand.
Ceremony and Official Reactions
A special event marked the first flight’s arrival at Ramon Airport. Key figures attended, including El Al’s chief executive, the head of Israel’s airports authority, and Eilat’s mayor.
Transportation Minister Miri Regev praised the step as vital for the south. She noted it strengthens Eilat as Israel’s gateway to the Red Sea and fits into broader plans to improve nationwide connectivity.
Officials expect this to lower overall ticket prices through more competition. With extra flights, travelers gain options, which could drive down costs and encourage more trips.
The airline highlighted operational hurdles but committed to reliable service. This includes modern planes and a focus on passenger comfort for the short hop.
Impact on Tourism and Economy
Eilat, known for its sunny weather and diving spots, stands to gain big from easier access. Tourists from Tel Aviv can now reach the city in under an hour by air, skipping long drives.
This route revival ties into Israel’s tourism recovery. Visitor numbers have climbed in 2025, with international arrivals up by about 15 percent compared to last year, according to recent industry reports.
Local businesses like hotels and restaurants anticipate a surge. The added flights could bring thousands more visitors monthly, pumping money into the area.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Daily Flights | 2 (morning and evening) |
| Aircraft Type | Boeing 737 |
| Starting Fare | 139 NIS (99 NIS subsidized for locals) |
| Route Distance | About 280 km |
| Flight Time | Around 50 minutes |
| Other Airlines on Route | Arkia, Israir, Air Haifa |
Experts predict this will help balance travel options across Israel. It reduces reliance on roads and promotes eco-friendly air travel for short distances.
Broader Context in Israeli Aviation
El Al’s domestic push mirrors its international growth. The airline has added routes to places like Moscow and plans more expansions in 2026.
Amid global events, such as conflicts in nearby regions, safe and steady flights matter more than ever. This resumption shows confidence in Israel’s aviation sector bouncing back strong.
Travel analysts point to rising demand for quick escapes within the country. With Eilat’s appeal as a vacation spot, these flights fill a gap left open for years.
The service also aids in emergency situations, offering fast links for aid or evacuations if needed. Overall, it marks a positive shift for connectivity in a nation where geography plays a key role.
What do you think about this flight resumption? Share your thoughts in the comments below or pass this article along to fellow travelers.
