Arkia Israeli Airlines flights and airline information

About

Arkia Israeli Airlines (IZ) is Israel's leading private carrier, ranking second in the country by passenger volume. The airline specializes in connecting the region's major cities with popular resorts and global metropolises. Its primary hub and the heart of the route network is the hub in Tel Aviv, providing convenient connections for thousands of travelers every year.

The company stands out for its hybrid approach, offering both scheduled flights and an extensive charter program. Unlike many industry giants, Arkia does not belong to global alliances, allowing it to maintain flexibility in pricing and offer unique travel packages that include flights and accommodation.

IATA codeIZ
Fleet size6
Passenger traffic1,600,000
Destinations41
HubTel Aviv

Key features of the carrier include a focus on Mediterranean destinations and a high level of safety that meets strict civil aviation standards. The company's fleet includes modern Boeing narrow-body aircraft and maneuverable ATR turboprop planes, allowing it to efficiently serve both short domestic legs and mid-range international routes.

For tourists, Arkia is not just a transport provider, but a full-service tour operator that helps plan turn-key vacations. Thanks to its attention to detail and deep knowledge of the local market, the airline remains a preferred choice for those looking for a balance between ticket price and quality of service on board.

Contacts

  • Official website: arkia.co.il
  • Main customer support phone: +972 3 690 2210
  • Reservations center: +972 3 690 3311
  • Short number for domestic calls: *5758
  • Customer support email: customer.service@arkia.co.il
  • Additional email: service@arkia.co.il
  • Social media: Facebook @ArkiaAirlines
  • Head office: 19 Lehi Street, Bnei Brak 5120028, Israel

For up-to-date information on flight status or schedule changes, we recommend using the company's official website. Please always check the current contact details on arkia.co.il before reaching out.

Baggage

Baggage rules at Arkia Israeli Airlines depend directly on your chosen fare plan and specific route. Basic economy fares often include only hand luggage, while checked baggage services are provided for an additional fee or are included in the price of higher-tier tickets.

Standard requirements for hand luggage limit the weight of the bag you can take into the cabin as well as its dimensions. Passengers are advised to check the allowed dimensions in their voucher in advance to avoid the need for extra payments at the check-in counter. Checked baggage must comply with the weight standards (usually up to 20-23 kg) provided for by your booking type.

In case of excess weight or oversized cargo, special rates for excess baggage apply. Sports equipment, such as diving gear or skis, as well as musical instruments, are transported by prior agreement with the support service. Items that pose a danger (flammable substances, sharp objects) are strictly prohibited in hand luggage.

To save time and money, Arkia advises paying for extra baggage in advance through your personal account on the website. Also, don't forget to securely pack fragile items and remove old baggage tags from suitcases before your flight.

Pet Rules

In-Cabin Transportation

The airline allows small pets to be transported in the passenger cabin if their weight, including the container, does not exceed the established limits. The animal must be in a soft or hard ventilated carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Usually, only cats and dogs are accepted for transportation.

Transportation in the Cargo Hold

Larger pets must travel in a special heated section of the cargo hold. The container must comply with IATA standards, be spacious enough for the animal to stand up and turn around, and have a secure lock.

Required Documents

  • A valid international veterinary passport.
  • A health certificate and vaccination certificate (including rabies).
  • An exit/entry permit that meets the requirements of the destination country.

Cost and Preparation

The pet transportation service is paid and charged as special baggage. The price depends on the weight and dimensions of the container. It is recommended not to feed your pet 4 hours before the flight and to acclimate them to the carrier in advance to reduce stress during the trip.

Please note that there may be restrictions for brachycephalic breeds. To clarify the current rules and book a place for an animal, be sure to contact the airline's call center well in advance.

Loyalty Program

Privilege Program

At the moment, Arkia Israeli Airlines does not have a classic mileage loyalty program with status levels common to large aviation alliances. Instead of accumulating points, the airline focuses on providing instant benefits and special price offers for its frequent customers.

Discounts and Promotions

  • Special Fares: Regular ticket sales for popular destinations in Europe and across Israel.
  • Travel Packages: Exclusive offers combining IZ flights with accommodation at partner hotels at reduced prices.
  • Group Discounts: Special booking conditions for large groups and corporate clients.

How to Find Out About Offers

Since mileage accumulation is not provided, the best way to save on flights is to subscribe to the official website's newsletter. Promo codes and information about "last-minute" flights to cities such as Dubai or Athens are published there. Current promotions are also often broadcasted on the airline's official Facebook account.

Services

On Arkia Israeli Airlines flights, the service is organized to satisfy the needs of different categories of travelers. The primary service class is Economy Class, which offers ergonomic seats and a basic set of services. On certain international routes and aircraft types, premium comfort seats with increased legroom are available.

In-flight catering depends on the flight duration and type. On short domestic flights, for example, between Tel Aviv and the city of Eilat, service may be limited to drinks, while on international routes, hot meals or snacks are offered. Passengers can pre-order special meals (kosher, vegetarian) if such an option is available for their fare.

Entertainment systems and Wi-Fi are not present on all aircraft; their availability depends on the specific plane performing the flight. Priority boarding services are provided for families with children, and the company provides necessary accompaniment and assistance at the airport for passengers with limited mobility. All additional services, including specific seat selection in the cabin, can be arranged at the booking stage or during online check-in.

Destinations

The Arkia airline route network covers key business and tourist centers in the region, providing reliable connections between cities in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The main hub for all carrier operations is the modern airport in Tel Aviv, where most international routes originate.

Travelers can head to cultural capitals such as London or Athens, enjoy a beach holiday in Larnaca and on the island of Rhodes, or take a business trip to Dubai. The airline also plays an important role in domestic communication, offering frequent flights to the southern resort center of Eilat.

Booking Tips

To purchase Arkia Israeli Airlines tickets at the best possible price, it is recommended to plan your trip in advance, especially if it falls on holidays or the summer vacation period. The most attractive fares are usually available on the official website arkia.co.il when booking 2-3 months before departure.

An important stage of preparation is online check-in. It opens approximately 24 hours before the flight and closes 6 hours before departure. Checking in online saves time at the airport and provides the opportunity to choose a preferred seat in the cabin. Please note that seat selection conditions and baggage allowances may change depending on the fare, so read the fare rules carefully before paying.

Don't forget about travel insurance—it will ensure your peace of mind in case of unforeseen changes to your plans. If you plan to fly frequently, check for special package offers on the website, which may include transfers or hotel discounts. The airline's mobile application, if available for your region, will help keep all flight data at hand and promptly receive notifications about delays or gate changes.

History

The history of Arkia Israeli Airlines began at the dawn of the state's formation in the late 1940s. Most experts agree that the official founding year is 1949, when the need arose to create a reliable air bridge for the country's domestic needs. From the very beginning, the airline played a key role in providing links between the center and remote areas, including flights to Eilat.

Over the decades, the company systematically expanded its presence, transforming from a local carrier into a powerful player on the international stage. Based at Dov Hoz and Ben Gurion airports in the Tel Aviv area, Arkia mastered routes to Europe and the Mediterranean, becoming a worthy alternative to the national carrier. The airline's fleet evolved from old propeller models to modern Boeing 757 and Airbus liners.

At the current stage, the company continues to hold its position as the country's second-largest air carrier. Under the leadership of new management, including Oz Berlowitz, Arkia is implementing digital technologies and optimizing its route network, paying special attention to charter destinations and service quality. Despite all the changes in the industry, the carrier remains faithful to its traditions of hospitality and safety established over 70 years ago.

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