Overview
- Israel’s Transportation Ministry has discussed a proposal with Emirates to base in Tel Aviv and operate nonstop routes to New York and Bangkok.
- The offer centers on seventh‑freedom rights, which let an airline fly between two foreign countries without touching its home country.
- The plan is not approved and would need changes to Israeli aviation law along with signoff from U.S. authorities for any New York service.
- Israeli and U.S. carriers are expected to oppose the move because it would put Emirates into direct competition on the lucrative New York–Tel Aviv market.
- The push follows Emirates’ suspension of Israel flights since October 7, 2023, with American now extending its Tel Aviv halt to January 6, 2027, leaving fewer nonstop options for travelers.