Arkia Israel Airlines has launched business-class service to Europe, beginning with its Tel Aviv-Paris route. One of Arkia’s Airbus A320 aircraft now includes a premium cabin, it said Tuesday in a press release.
The move marks the first time Arkia has offered business class on its European routes. It already has premium service on flights to New York and destinations in the East, it said.
The new configuration includes 12 business-class and 150 economy seats on the A320 aircraft. Arkia, listed by the Israel Airports Authority as Arkia Israeli Airlines, operates under the IATA code IZ.
The newly converted aircraft was scheduled to operate its inaugural Paris flight on Tuesday, with the airline presenting the launch as part of a broader strategy to expand premium service on short- and medium-haul routes.
The decision followed high demand for premium products after the success of the airline’s business-class service, Arkia CEO Oz Berlovitz said.
“Following the success of the business-class cabin on the routes to New York and destinations in the East, and in light of the high demand we are seeing for premium products, we are now launching business class on the Paris route for the first time among our European destinations,” he said.
This is a strategic move that expands our range of services
Arkia had made operational adjustments to its fleet by converting its first A320 to a business-and-economy configuration, allowing it to offer “a higher-quality and more precise product” on shorter routes, he added.
“This is a strategic move that expands our range of services and allows passengers to choose the service experience that suits them,” Berlovitz said.
Arkia said another Airbus A320 aircraft would be converted to accommodate business-class seating over the coming month, with the goal of expanding premium service to additional destinations.
Arkia’s new business-class package includes an expanded baggage allowance of two suitcases, weighing up to 32 kg. each, in addition to a trolley bag.
Passengers will benefit from lounge access, a dedicated check-in line, priority boarding, and upgraded in-flight dining served on porcelain tableware, including an expanded alcohol menu and desserts.
Tickets for the new business-class cabin will start at $849, Arkia said.