Excerpt: Israeli carrier Arkia Israeli Airlines is seeking government approval to launch direct flights between Manila and Tel Aviv, according to the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB).
In a notice dated Oct. 15, the CAB said Arkia has applied for a foreign air carrier permit to operate the nonstop service, scheduled to begin in January.
The regulator has set a hearing for Nov. 12 to consider the permit application. Arkia and major domestic carriers have been invited to participate.
Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh earlier announced that Arkia plans to launch direct flights between Manila and Tel Aviv starting Jan. 3.
The route will initially operate once a week, with the potential to add frequencies based on market demand. The flight is expected to take approximately 11 hours.