Italy’s flag carrier, ITA Airways, has announced it will restart direct flights between Rome Fiumicino and Tel Aviv Ben Gurion starting January 1, 2026. This move comes after a suspension due to regional tensions and aims to boost travel, business, and cultural links between the two nations.
Flight Schedule and Timings
Travelers can look forward to two daily flights on this route, making it easier to plan trips. The schedule offers morning and overnight options for flexibility.
Here are the key flight details:
- AZ806: Leaves Rome Fiumicino at 9:15 a.m., arrives in Tel Aviv Ben Gurion at 1:35 p.m. local time.
- AZ807: Departs Tel Aviv Ben Gurion at 2:55 p.m., lands in Rome Fiumicino at 5:40 p.m. local time.
- AZ810: Takes off from Rome Fiumicino at 10:50 p.m., reaches Tel Aviv Ben Gurion at 3:10 a.m. the next day.
- AZ809: Starts from Tel Aviv Ben Gurion at 5:15 a.m., arrives in Rome Fiumicino at 8:05 a.m. local time.
These timings connect well with ITA Airways’ wider network through its Rome hub. This setup helps passengers from Europe, the Americas, and beyond reach Israel without long layovers.
Bookings are already open on the airline’s website and through travel agents. Early reservations are advised, especially for peak seasons like summer holidays.
Aircraft Features and Comfort
ITA Airways will use its modern Airbus A321neo for these flights. This plane stands out as the first narrow body aircraft in the fleet with three cabin classes.
Passengers in business class get full flat bed seats for better rest on the roughly three and a half hour journey. Premium economy offers extra legroom and enhanced meals, while economy provides comfortable seating with inflight entertainment.
The A321neo is known for its efficiency, cutting fuel use and emissions by up to 20 percent compared to older models. This fits with the airline’s push for sustainable travel.
Recent fleet updates show ITA Airways adding more of these planes, with some dedicated to sports legends like marathon runner Gelindo Bordin. This adds a touch of Italian pride to the flying experience.
Why the Resumption Matters
The return of this route is a big deal for both countries. It strengthens trade, tourism, and family visits that were hit hard by the flight halt.
Italy and Israel share deep historical ties, from ancient Roman history to modern business deals. Direct flights make it simpler for Italian companies to expand in Israel’s tech sector, often called the Startup Nation.
On the tourism side, more visitors can explore Rome’s Colosseum or Tel Aviv’s beaches. This comes at a time when global travel is rebounding, with international arrivals up 10 percent in Europe this year according to tourism boards.
The decision follows improved security assessments in the region. Airlines worldwide are watching similar routes, like those from other European hubs, to gauge demand.
Background on the Suspension
Flights between Rome and Tel Aviv stopped in late 2023 amid escalating conflicts in the Middle East. Safety concerns led many carriers to pause services.
ITA Airways, like others, prioritized passenger and crew protection. The break affected thousands of travelers, forcing them to use longer routes via Istanbul or Dubai.
Now, with positive developments, the airline sees this as a safe time to return. Industry experts note that such resumptions often signal broader stability in air travel.
This aligns with Italy’s foreign policy goals, including stronger Mediterranean partnerships. Recent diplomatic talks between Italian and Israeli leaders have highlighted aviation as a key area for cooperation.
Data from aviation trackers shows demand for Israel bound flights from Europe has grown 15 percent in recent months, driven by business and leisure needs.
What Travelers Should Know
Planning a trip? Check visa rules Israel requires most visitors to have a passport valid for six months beyond their stay, but EU citizens like Italians enter visa free for up to 90 days.
Health guidelines may include proof of vaccinations, though COVID rules have eased. Always verify with official sources before booking.
| Flight Number | Departure City | Departure Time | Arrival City | Arrival Time | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AZ806 | Rome Fiumicino | 9:15 a.m. | Tel Aviv Ben Gurion | 1:35 p.m. | 3h 20m |
| AZ807 | Tel Aviv Ben Gurion | 2:55 p.m. | Rome Fiumicino | 5:40 p.m. | 3h 45m |
| AZ810 | Rome Fiumicino | 10:50 p.m. | Tel Aviv Ben Gurion | 3:10 a.m. (+1) | 3h 20m |
| AZ809 | Tel Aviv Ben Gurion | 5:15 a.m. | Rome Fiumicino | 8:05 a.m. | 3h 50m |
Fares start around 200 euros one way, depending on the class and date. Look for deals through loyalty programs like Volare, which offers points for future trips.
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