Israel’s Open-Skies Policy Goes into Effects; Ben Gurion Roster Up 15%

The daily load of flights inbound and outbound to and from Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport is up 15% as of Sunday, the first day the new “open-skies” policy is in effect. The policy, which was instituted in order to make it easier for European carriers to service Israel — including a number of discount airlines –, was vehemently opposed by local flag carriers. The main airline, El Al, has responded by creating a discount subsidiary of its own called “Up,” and a number of new faces are being seen at the ends of Ben Gurion’s jetways. From now through October, the new policy will be tested in its first reporting season.