Published on
February 10, 2026
EL AL, Israel’s flagship airline, is soaring into uncharted skies with its largest route expansion in history, set to open up nine new destinations across the globe. This ambitious move marks the beginning of a new chapter for the airline, signaling a significant post-war growth phase after focusing heavily on core routes to Europe, North America, and Asia over the past few years. With the introduction of long-haul flights to Vietnam, South Korea, and the Philippines, as well as expanded European routes, EL AL is aiming to cater to an increasing demand for both business and leisure travel while strengthening Israel’s global aviation network.
In a remarkable expansion, EL AL has outlined its strategic vision to connect Israel to the world more efficiently by introducing direct flights to Hanoi, Vietnam, Seoul, South Korea, and Manila, Philippines. The airline is also extending its European network with new destinations like Catania in Sicily, Cagliari in Sardinia, and Basel in Switzerland, among others. These moves underscore EL AL’s determination to grow its market share and reinforce Israel’s pivotal role in international travel, fostering economic relations and cultural exchange through enhanced air connectivity.
A Bold Expansion to Asia and Europe
As part of EL AL’s most aggressive growth strategy to date, the airline will operate three weekly flights to Hanoi, Seoul, and Manila. These new long-haul flights will be serviced by EL AL’s Dreamliner aircraft, which offers passengers three classes of service: economy, premium economy, and business. The strategic inclusion of these Asian markets reflects an increase in travel demand and highlights the airline’s role in connecting Israel with thriving Asian economies.
In addition to these long-haul destinations, Sundor, a subsidiary of EL AL, will operate six new leisure routes in Europe. These include destinations such as Zagreb in Croatia, Dubrovnik, Copenhagen, and the return of Basel, further enhancing EL AL’s position as a key player in European travel routes.
Strengthening Connectivity Between Israel and Global Markets
Advertisement
Advertisement
The addition of these new destinations is not just about providing tourists with more travel options, but also about strengthening Israel’s economic and cultural ties with other countries. EL AL has long been a gateway between Israel and the world, and this expansion is an expression of confidence in the resilience of the Israeli economy. The airline’s long-term vision includes further strategic partnerships with global carriers, which will extend EL AL’s reach to additional destinations across the globe.
By adding these new routes, EL AL is ensuring that travelers have more options for connecting to popular destinations across Asia, Europe, and beyond. These routes will not only serve the tourism sector but also cater to increasing demand from business travelers, as global connectivity becomes even more critical in today’s world.
New Long-Haul Services Connecting Asia and Israel
The long-haul flights to Vietnam, South Korea, and the Philippines represent a bold step for EL AL as it seeks to tap into Asia’s rapidly growing travel markets. Each of these flights will operate three times a week, providing vital direct links for both business and leisure travelers. The flights to Hanoi, Seoul, and Manila are expected to help further solidify Israel’s presence in Asia, while simultaneously fostering stronger trade relations and boosting tourism between these countries and Israel.
Why This Expansion Matters for Israel’s Tourism and Economy
The new routes come at a time when the Israeli tourism industry is beginning to rebound from a challenging period. With the introduction of EL AL’s new routes, the airline will be helping to drive tourism growth, especially from Asia and Europe, two of the most important regions for international travel. By connecting Israel with these key global markets, EL AL is playing a central role in boosting the Israeli economy through increased visitation and enhanced international trade.
Furthermore, these new flights are expected to provide an influx of tourists from Vietnam, South Korea, and the Philippines, who are increasingly seeking destinations like Israel for cultural tourism, business opportunities, and religious pilgrimages. As Israel’s aviation sector grows, it will continue to support the national economy while creating new opportunities for travelers from these emerging markets to explore Israel’s diverse offerings.
Growth in Europe with New Routes and Increased Frequencies
Beyond the exciting new long-haul services to Asia, EL AL is also expanding its European network with new destinations like Catania, Cagliari, and Basel. These routes are supported by the addition of two Boeing 737 aircraft and an increase in leased capacity, enhancing EL AL’s fleet and improving operational efficiency.
The airline’s European expansion also includes a return to Copenhagen, a city that EL AL has not served since 2001, marking a significant moment in the airline’s historical growth. As tourism in Europe continues to rise, these additional routes will help Israel tap into the booming European leisure market, bringing tourists to Israel and making it easier for Israelis to visit popular European destinations.
Expanding Connections: A New Era for EL AL’s Global Network
As part of this expansion, EL AL also announced increased frequencies on its high-demand North American routes, with up to 55 weekly flights to the United States. These enhanced services will enable more efficient connections for tourists, business travelers, and Israelis traveling between Israel and the U.S. This increase in frequency is indicative of EL AL’s commitment to its North American market, which remains one of the airline’s most important.
Additionally, flights to Japan and Thailand are also on the rise, with up to five weekly flights to Japan and 16 weekly flights to Thailand, strengthening Israel’s connections to Asia and enhancing the ability of tourists to travel between Israel and these key Asian destinations.
EL AL’s Strategic Vision for 2026 and Beyond
Looking forward, EL AL plans to continue its expansion strategy through further partnerships and fleet growth. The airline is confident that these new routes will play a pivotal role in its long-term growth, allowing it to tap into new markets while expanding its global footprint. By strengthening its presence in Asia and Europe, EL AL is ensuring that Israel remains well-connected to some of the most important regions in global travel.
In the coming months, ticket sales for these new routes will be available, with round-trip fares starting at $899 for the Hanoi route and flights to Seoul starting in March 2027. Travelers looking to experience these new destinations can look forward to competitive fares and direct connections, making it easier than ever to explore Israel and beyond.
