The service, operated by Arkia Airlines, was inaugurated at Noi Bai International Airport, marking the first non-stop passenger connection between the two countries.
Arkia flight IZ595 departed Tel Aviv shortly after midnight local time and landed in Hanoi at 4.30p.m. after an 11.5-hour journey. The return flight leaves Hanoi at 7.40p.m., arriving at Ben Gurion Airport at 2.25a.m. the following day.
    |
 |
|
At the launch ceremony (Photo: Embassy of Israel in Hanoi) |
The route will initially operate once a week using a wide-body aircraft with a capacity of around 290 passengers, the airline said.
Israeli officials said the new route eliminates the need for transit through third countries, shortening travel time between Israel and Vietnam.
"The direct flight is a strategically significant step in Israel - Vietnam relations," Israeli Ambassador Yaron Mayer said at the launch ceremony.
"It brings our peoples closer together, opening up new opportunities for cooperation in tourism, trade, investment and innovation."
The inaugural flight carried a delegation of Israeli tour operators and media representatives exploring opportunities to expand travel products in Vietnam, particularly customized tours targeting Israeli travelers.
Arkia officials said the route forms part of its broader push to expand in Asia, reflecting growing demand for long-haul travel and the rising profile of Vietnam as a destination for Israeli tourists and businesses.
Vietnamese travelers are also expected to benefit, with Tel Aviv serving as a gateway to destinations across the Middle East and Europe.
Officials from both sides said improved air connectivity could help push bilateral trade beyond 4 billion USD in 2026.
Source: VNA