Tel Aviv Delhi and Tel Aviv Mumbai Direct Flights to Transform India Israel Tourism by April 2026

Published on December 25, 2025

The proposed direct flights from Tel Aviv to Delhi and Mumbai are set to enhance tourism ties between India and Israel, marking a milestone in the bilateral air connectivity between the two nations. Israir, an Israeli airline, has formally requested approval from Indian aviation authorities to operate these routes starting in April 2026. If granted, the new routes will open up direct connections, reducing travel time and offering more affordable and convenient travel options for tourists from both countries. This development has the potential to boost the tourism sector significantly, benefiting both nations’ economies.

Strengthening the Connection Between India and Israel

Israel and India have long shared strong cultural, economic, and historical ties, but air connectivity has remained a key factor limiting tourism growth. While there have been flights between the two countries for years, the introduction of direct routes will make travel smoother and more accessible for both Indian and Israeli tourists. Israeli officials are particularly optimistic about the new routes, believing that they will help meet the growing demand for travel between the two countries, especially for religious tourism. Both nations have a rich cultural and historical heritage, with India attracting tourists to Israel’s sacred sites and Israel being a popular destination for spiritual travellers from India.

The move to launch these direct flights aligns with India’s increasing importance as a source market for Israel’s tourism. According to official data from the Israel Ministry of Tourism, India has consistently ranked among the top ten countries sending visitors to Israel, a trend that is expected to continue with easier access through direct flights. The same applies to Israeli tourists looking to explore India’s diverse offerings, from its historical landmarks to its natural beauty. The new routes will cater to both the leisure and business travel segments, providing broader access to Indian markets.

Tourism Growth Fueled by Direct Connectivity

The proposed flights are expected to have a significant impact on tourism for both countries. For Israeli tourists, India offers a wide array of experiences, from exploring the architectural wonders of Delhi to enjoying the vibrant culture and beaches of Mumbai. Moreover, India is a crucial destination for spiritual tourists, many of whom visit Israel for religious pilgrimages. The introduction of direct flights will likely encourage more Indian tourists to explore Israel’s rich cultural and religious heritage, including destinations like Jerusalem and the Dead Sea.

The Israeli government has been keen on attracting more Indian visitors, and the direct air links will play a major role in that. Israel’s tourism policies have specifically targeted the Indian market, aiming to increase the number of Indian tourists to Israel by offering promotional discounts and facilitating smoother travel experiences. For Indian travellers, Israel’s appeal lies not only in its spiritual sites but also in its growing hospitality sector, diverse cuisine, and vibrant cities like Tel Aviv, which has emerged as a modern cultural hub.

Complementing Other Airlines and Enhancing Bilateral Relations

Israir’s direct routes will complement existing services between Israel and India. Air India, which has already been operating direct flights between Delhi and Tel Aviv, is set to resume services in January 2026. The collaboration between multiple airlines will give travellers more options, likely driving down prices and increasing passenger traffic. As competition rises, passengers will benefit from greater flexibility in flight times and better prices. This move will also create opportunities for travel agencies and tour operators to develop special packages catering to both inbound and outbound travellers, especially during peak travel periods like holidays and religious festivals.

The new flights are also expected to have a significant impact on business travel. With both Israel and India being emerging economic powers, the ease of direct air connectivity is expected to foster stronger business ties. For Israeli companies, especially those in tech and innovation sectors, the direct routes will provide easier access to India’s rapidly growing market. Similarly, Indian companies looking to strengthen their presence in Israel will find it more convenient to send executives for business meetings and conferences.

The Future of India-Israel Tourism

Israel’s tourism sector has rebounded strongly post-pandemic, and with this new air connectivity, both nations can expect even further growth in tourism and economic cooperation. The Israeli Ministry of Tourism anticipates that direct flights will significantly increase the flow of Indian tourists, particularly in the spiritual tourism sector, which has been on the rise in both countries. Similarly, Israel can expect a boost in Indian leisure tourism, as the allure of Israel’s historical and religious sites, combined with modern amenities, becomes more accessible.

For now, the approval process is ongoing, but with support from both governments, there is optimism that the new direct flights will provide the necessary infrastructure to meet the growing demand for travel. If approved, the new routes will undoubtedly lay the foundation for a new chapter in India-Israel tourism relations, benefiting not only the airlines but also the tourism industries in both countries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the direct Tel Aviv-Delhi and Tel Aviv-Mumbai flights offer much more than just a new mode of travel. They promise to deepen cultural ties, boost tourism numbers, and strengthen economic connections between India and Israel. As regulatory approvals move forward, this new route will make it easier for both countries to engage in meaningful exchanges, creating lasting opportunities for growth in tourism and business alike. If all goes according to plan, this could be the beginning of a stronger, more connected future for both nations.