Israel’s El Al outlines fleet growth, renews options

Israel's Arkia in merger talks with Israir

Israir (6H, Tel Aviv Ben Gurion) has advised the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) of preliminary merger talks with Arkia Israeli Airlines (IZ, Tel Aviv Ben Gurion). Rami Levy, the controlling owner of Israir, is also reportedly in early discussions with Israel's Competition Authority in a bid to defuse any antitrust concerns a merger may present.

Ongoing geopolitical events in Israel have dampened demand for air travel there, but Hebrew-language outlets report that both airlines believe this presents as an opportune time to merge. However, possible competitive issues that may scuttle any deal include Israir and Arkia being the only operators on the Tel Aviv - Eilat route.

Along with El Al Israel Airlines, Israir and Arkia are the only scheduled passenger carriers based in Israel, with Israir and Arkia competing in the budget market segment. According to ch-aviation PRO airlines data, Israir's six A320-200s fly to 38 destinations in 25 countries, while Arkia's two A321-200NX and three E195s fly to 16 airports in 14 countries. The...

El Al, Israir, Arkia request Israeli state aid

Israel’s El Al adds B777, B737 freighters in context of war

Israel's El Al stops using Oman airspace, defers India ops