Arkia has unveiled its spring-summer 2026 destinations, announcing an expanded global route network and, for the first time, the launch of business class service on select European flights.
The airline said it will operate flights this summer to approximately 40 international destinations, including North America, Asia, Europe, and the Mediterranean. New routes include Phuket, Thailand; Málaga and Ibiza, Spain; and Vilnius, Lithuania. During the press conference, the airline announced that it would, for the first time, operate a business class service, with Paris becoming the first route to offer the upgrade service.
The airline will continue operating transatlantic flights to New York City and expand long-haul activity to Asia, including Thailand and Vietnam. It is also renewing flights to Ibiza, with two weekly services aimed at both short weekend breaks and longer vacations, while strengthening its position in the Greek islands market with a broad route network and high-frequency service. The business class expansion follows what the company described as strong demand and the success of its premium product on long-haul routes to New York and the Far East.
The new cabin will operate on Airbus A320 aircraft and offer 12 business-class seats with VIP service, lounge access, dedicated check-in and boarding, and an expanded baggage allowance of two 32-kg suitcases plus a trolley. In-flight service will include a curated culinary experience featuring porcelain tableware, an expanded wine and spirits menu, and selected desserts. Business class fares to Paris will start at $850 one-way.
Arkia CEO Oz Berlowitz said the move reflects the carrier’s broader growth strategy. “Arkia continues its tremendous growth momentum and operates consistently in accordance with its strategic plan to expand the destination map and the offering, to deepen activity in long-haul flights, and to improve service. We are constantly thinking in depth about how to improve, reach new destinations, and offer the Israeli public a competitive and diverse product that combines quality service, fair prices, and an advanced flight experience.”
During the press conference, held in the presence of singer and Israel Prize laureate Yehoram Gaon, Berlowitz also revealed that a new aircraft in the company’s fleet will bear the name of one of Israel’s most celebrated artists. Arkia announced that it had chosen to name a new aircraft after Gaon as part of its long-standing tradition of naming planes after Israeli creators and artists in recognition of their contribution to Israeli culture and identity.
For the first time since the tradition began, the airline selected an artist who is still alive, citing his exceptional body of work and enduring cultural impact. Gaon, a recipient of the Israel Prize for his contributions to Hebrew song, is also an honorary citizen of Jerusalem and, in 2017, was selected to light a torch at the state ceremony on Mount Herzl.
Arkia’s spring-summer 2026 network will include destinations such as New York, Bangkok, Phuket, Hanoi, Paris, London, Rome, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Prague, Athens, Larnaca, Dubai, the Seychelles, and Zanzibar, alongside an expanded roster of Greek island routes.