After More Than a Decade EL AL Returns to South America and Launches a Non-Stop Flight to Buenos Air
← Back November 11, 2026
New York, April 20, 2026 - EL AL Israel Airlines is continuing to expand its route network with the launch of a new non-stop flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina, scheduled to begin operations in November. This marks a significant strategic move, as the airline opens a new gateway in South America for the first time since 2011 and, for the first time, adds a non-stop connection to the farthest gateway in its route network.
The airline will operate two weekly flights using its new and advanced Dreamliner aircraft, featuring three service classes: Economy, Premium and Business. Flight time is expected to be approximately 16.5 hours on the outbound flight from Israel and about 15.5 hours on the return flight to Israel. Ticket sales for the route are expected to open in May.
EL AL will offer onward connections from Buenos Aires to gateways across Argentina and throughout the continent through partners such as Aerolíneas Argentinas. This will complement services to other South American destinations via a variety of European gateways.
The launch represents a meaningful step in strengthening ties between Israel and South America, particularly with the Jewish community in Argentina, the fifth largest in the world and currently the largest Jewish community without non-stop flights to Israel. The new non-stop flight is expected to deepen the connection with the community while also reinforcing tourism, business and diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In addition, the non-stop flight responds to increased demand for Argentina and South America overall, a trend that has intensified since October 7, both among Israeli travelers and businesses operating in the region.
The expansion of EL AL’s route network is enabled by the growth of the group’s aircraft fleet as part of the airline’s fleet renewal program and serves as a central pillar in executing EL AL’s long-term strategy to expand operations and strengthen its global presence.
“The launch of the non-stop flight between Tel Aviv and Buenos Aires is a move of strategic, diplomatic and national importance, born out of close cooperation with the State of Israel and a deep commitment to strengthening the relationship between the two countries,” said Levy Halevy, EL AL CEO. “The new non-stop flight reflects the strong bond between Israel and Argentina. For EL AL, this is a historic and exciting flight, the longest we will operate, expanding our international network and reinforcing Israel’s connection to the world, even in a complex reality.”
“The opening of the non-stop flight between Israel and Argentina, which we have worked on over recent months in cooperation with the State of Israel, is a welcome development,” said Ben Zvi, Chairman of the EL AL Board of Directors. “For us, this is a historic and exciting flight that reflects our commitment to expanding Israel’s connection to the world. We are proud to continue building the aviation infrastructure that connects Israel globally and to ensure that the Israeli flag continues to fly proudly, even in distant gateways.”