Israir plans to launch services from Tel Aviv to Delhi and Mumbai in order to access the Indian market

After submitting a formal designation request to Indian civil aviation authorities, Israir Aviation & Tourism Ltd. has revealed aspirations to enter the Indian market with projected direct flights from Tel Aviv to Delhi and Mumbai. The airline has stated that it hopes to start operations as early as Passover in April 2026, pending the acquisition of all necessary governmental approvals.  In addition to Air India’s planned restoration of nonstop Delhi–Tel Aviv services starting in January 2026, Israir’s proposed arrival is anticipated to enhance direct air connectivity between India and Israel. With Arkia Airlines having previously stated its intention to investigate direct services to Indian locations like Goa, Kochi, and Mumbai, the development also reflects larger interest from Israeli carriers in the Indian market.  Israir, one of the top airlines in Israel, offers both scheduled and charter flights throughout Europe, the Mediterranean, and local markets. The airline has applied to run services on six major routes—Tokyo, Hanoi, Delhi, Mumbai, Phuket, and Bangkok—as part of its long-haul expansion strategy, emphasising its emphasis on high-demand leisure and business travel destinations.  “We have been actively working to restore air connectivity and strengthen strategic airline partnerships, and this development provides a timely boost to those efforts,” said Galit Hoffman, Consul-Tourist Affairs for India, Israel Ministry of Tourism. It supports our long-term growth forecast for both India-Israel air travel and inbound tourism from India.  The move’s timing coincides with Israel’s slow but steady tourism recovery. Despite border conflicts and pandemic-affected periods in recent years, the country saw a notable improvement in November 2025, with 122,500 foreign tourists arriving. Between January and November 2025, a total of 1.18 million tourists arrived, with an estimated 1.3 million for the entire year.  The move’s timing coincides with Israel’s slow but steady tourism recovery. The nation saw 122,500 foreign visitors in November 2025, with a total of 1.18 million arrivals from January to November 2025 and an estimated 1.3 million arrivals for the entire year.  India is Israel’s top Asian market and one of its top ten global source markets, demonstrating the country’s continued strong growth in tourism. In the upcoming years, it is anticipated that the suggested services, the reopening of current routes, and growing airline interest will be crucial to restoring capacity, enhancing accessibility, and strengthening India-Israeli aviation and tourist relations.