Hanoi (VNS/VNA) - Israel and Vietnam on January 5 launched their first direct air route, linking Tel Aviv and Hanoi in a move expected to accelerate tourism, trade and wider bilateral exchanges.
The service, operated by Arkia Airlines, was inaugurated at Noi Bai International Airport, marking the first non-stop passenger connection between the two countries.
Arkia flight IZ595 departed Tel Aviv shortly after midnight local time and landed in Hanoi at 4.30pm after an 11.5-hour journey. The return flight leaves Hanoi at 7.40pm, arriving at Ben Gurion Airport at 2.25am the following day.
The route will initially operate once a week using a wide-body aircraft with a capacity of around 290 passengers, the airline said.
Israeli officials said the new route eliminates the need for transit through third countries, shortening travel time between Israel and Vietnam.
"The direct flight is a strategically significant step in Israel–Vietnam relations", Israeli Ambassador Yaron Mayer said at the launch ceremony.
"It brings our peoples closer together, opening up new opportunities for cooperation in tourism, trade, investment and innovation."
The inaugural flight carried a delegation of Israeli tour operators and media representatives exploring opportunities to expand travel products in Vietnam, particularly customised tours targeting Israeli travellers.
Arkia officials said the route forms part of its broader push to expand in Asia, reflecting growing demand for long-haul travel and the rising profile of Vietnam as a destination for Israeli tourists and businesses.
Vietnamese travellers are also expected to benefit, with Tel Aviv serving as a gateway to destinations across the Middle East and Europe.
Officials from both sides said improved air connectivity could help push bilateral trade beyond 4 billion USD in 2026./.
Vietnam, Israel promote launch of direct air route
Under the pilot plan, Arkia will initially operate one weekly flight from January to June 2026.
