Arkia Airlines announced plans to expand and upgrade its Tel Aviv-New York route in response to strong demand, adding flights during August and September and introducing a new wide-body aircraft to the route.
The airline will add flights on Mondays and Wednesdays between Tel Aviv and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport during the two months. The services will be operated using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner from Italian airline Neos.
Arkia said the aircraft would carry 345 passengers in economy and premium cabins and offer paid Wi-Fi throughout the flight.
Beginning September 11, Arkia will also deploy a Hi Fly-operated Airbus A330-300 on the route, replacing one of the aircraft currently serving it.
The A330 will have 249 seats, including 46 in business class and 203 in economy. Arkia said an Israeli crew would be present on each flight.
The additional Arkia route addresses increased demand
The airline said the additional capacity and aircraft upgrade followed increased demand for flights to New York, as well as requests from customers for a higher-quality experience on the long-haul route.
Arkia said the move would strengthen its premium offering on what it described as its flagship route to the United States, while improving passenger comfort and service.
The expansion follows Arkia’s January interline agreement with JetBlue, which enables passengers arriving at JFK to connect to destinations across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean.