Arkia Israeli Airlines , one of Israel’s leading airlines, operates flights between Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) and Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) in Tel Aviv, creating a convenient link between Georgia and Israel. Known for its comfortable service and reliable operations, Arkia provides Georgian travelers with easy access to Israel’s cultural and business hubs, as well as popular Mediterranean destinations. This article delves into Arkia’s operations in Tbilisi, routes, services, and its impact on tourism and business between Georgia and Israel.
About Arkia Airlines
Founded in 1949, Arkia is one of Israel’s oldest airlines and a popular choice for leisure and holiday travel. Operating from its main hub at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), Arkia serves a growing network of routes across Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. Known for its comfort, efficiency, and reliability, Arkia appeals to both Israeli and international travelers seeking affordable options for regional and international travel.
Arkia Airlines Operations in Tbilisi
Arkia Airlines operates direct flights between Tbilisi International Airport and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, catering to both leisure and business travelers. The Tbilisi-Tel Aviv route is highly popular among Georgian tourists exploring Israel and Israeli tourists visiting Georgia for its scenic landscapes, historic sites, and culinary attractions.
Key destinations accessible from Tel Aviv for Georgian travelers flying with Arkia include:
- The Mediterranean: Larnaca, Heraklion, and Rhodes for beach and resort getaways
- Western Europe: Paris, Amsterdam, and Rome via seasonal routes
- Middle East: Dubai, Cairo, and Sharm El Sheikh for both business and leisure travel
Arkia’s flights between Tbilisi and Tel Aviv operate several times a week, with increased frequency during peak travel seasons to meet rising demand from tourists and business travelers alike.
Fleet and Aircraft
Arkia Airlines operates a modern and efficient fleet that includes:
- Embraer E195-E2: Known for its fuel efficiency and comfort, suitable for short- and medium-haul flights.
- Airbus A321neo: A newer aircraft model ideal for Arkia’s medium-haul flights, offering spacious seating and modern amenities.
These aircraft provide economy class seating and options for travelers to enhance their experience with add-ons, maintaining comfort and efficiency on all flights.
Services and Passenger Experience
Arkia offers a range of services designed to make the travel experience comfortable and convenient for passengers flying between Tbilisi and Tel Aviv.
Economy Class
- Complimentary snacks and beverages on most flights, with options inspired by Mediterranean cuisine.
- In-flight entertainment accessible via Arkia’s app on passengers’ personal devices.
- Generous baggage allowance with one checked bag up to 23 kg on international routes.
Business Class (Available on select routes)
- Priority boarding and check-in services.
- Access to lounges at Ben Gurion Airport for added comfort.
- Enhanced seating with extra legroom and more spacious arrangements.
Arkia Airlines also offers a flexible frequent flyer program in partnership with various international airlines, allowing passengers to earn and redeem miles for future travel and benefits.
Baggage Policy
Arkia Airlines offers a flexible baggage policy for Georgian travelers:
- Economy Class: One checked bag up to 23 kg and one carry-on item.
- Additional options for oversized luggage or extra bags are available for purchase.
This allows passengers to customize their travel needs according to their requirements.
Impact on Georgian Tourism and Economy
Arkia Airlines plays an essential role in supporting tourism and business travel between Georgia and Israel. By offering direct flights to Tel Aviv, Arkia attracts Israeli tourists to explore Georgia’s mountains, historic cities, and cuisine. The flights also make it easy for Georgian travelers to visit Israel’s historical and cultural landmarks, such as Jerusalem and Tel Aviv’s Mediterranean coastline.
Arkia’s flights provide convenient options for business travelers, fostering trade relations and investment opportunities between Georgia and Israel. With Tel Aviv as a central business hub, Georgian professionals benefit from easy access to Israel’s commercial sectors.
Customer Feedback and Passenger Experience
Georgian travelers flying with Arkia from Tbilisi appreciate the airline’s punctuality, smooth check-in process, and friendly service. The Mediterranean-inspired snacks and comfortable seating contribute to a pleasant travel experience, especially for tourists traveling between Tbilisi and Tel Aviv. Some passengers note that additional services such as checked baggage or meal options must be purchased separately on certain fares, which is common in the regional travel sector.
Overall, Arkia is regarded as a reliable and convenient airline offering great value for travel between Georgia and Israel.
Future Prospects and Expansion
As demand for travel between Georgia and Israel grows, Arkia Airlines is well-positioned to expand its services in Tbilisi. Possible future developments include:
- Increasing flight frequency between Tbilisi and Tel Aviv during high-demand seasons.
- Introducing seasonal routes connecting Tbilisi with additional Mediterranean destinations.
- Strengthening partnerships with Georgian travel agencies to offer more travel packages and cultural tours between Georgia and Israel.
Arkia Airlines is a valuable addition to the airline offerings at Tbilisi International Airport, providing direct, reliable, and affordable travel between Tbilisi and Tel Aviv. Known for its friendly service, modern fleet, and efficient operations, Arkia Airlines enhances tourism and business connectivity between Georgia and Israel. As Arkia continues to grow, its presence at Tbilisi International Airport will further promote cultural exchange and economic ties between Georgia and the Mediterranean region.