Israel’s Arkia considering to operate flights to Sri Lanka

Israel’s second largest airline, Arkia is looking at expanding its operations to Sri Lanka and Thailand, following Saudi Arabia’s plan to allow unfettered access to its airspace to Israeli airlines.  

The move by Saudi Arabia would allow Israeli airlines to save fuel costs and reduce flight times to Asian destinations.

Arkia is expected to start flights to Goa, India, in November and is considering to service Sri Lanka and Thailand using Airbus A321neoLR aircraft.

Israel’s Tourism Ministry has said the expanded Saudi corridor would eventually make airline tickets some 20 percent cheaper. 

Sri Lanka had welcomed over 4,600 Israeli tourists up to May.