After a break of more than a decade, Monarch Airlines is resuming London-Tel Aviv flights. From December 3 the carrier will operate three weekly flights between Luton and Ben Gurion airport on Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays as well as one weekly flight on Thursdays between Luton and Ovda in the Negev near Eilat. Tickets went on sale today.
One-way flights available for the launch are from £49 outbound and £89 inbound.
Israel's Ministry of Tourism said today that it had advised Monarch on reopening its route to Israel and approved a grant of £45 for each tourist that it brings to Ovda in the Negev this winter as part of its campaign to encourage European tourists to come to the Red Sea resort of Eilat. The Ministry of Tourism will also help Monarch market the route.
Minister of Tourism Yariv Levin said,“I am delighted that Monarch Airlines is launching new scheduled services to Israel this December. This is a great indication that Israel has the support of major carriers, such as Monarch, and will allow for even greater choice and accessibility for international travellers. By signing the Open Skies Agreement in 2013, we have paved the way to form this partnership with Monarch.”
Monarch CEO Andrew Swaffield said, Tel Aviv and Ovda are growing in popularity once more with tourists and with the diverse offerings of both these destinations we are sure they will be a very popular choice for winter short breaks and holidays. We are also looking forward to welcoming visitors from Israel to the UK.”
For many years Monarch operated charter services to Israel but this will be the company's first scheduled service to the country.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on August 11, 2015
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