After many delays around the issue of flight security and countless question marks, it finally happened this morning (Sunday). The first-ever commercial flight of an Israeli airline from Ben Gurion Aiport to Sharm el-Sheikh took off at 10:15 – Sun D’Or flight 5193.
To mark the historic takeoff, a ceremony was held this morning in the presence of the incoming CEO of El Al, Dina Ben-Tal Ganensia, and Gal Gershon, CEO of Sun D’Or, part of the El Al Group. After the ceremonial ribbon cutting, the first passengers were greeted on this festive occasion.
Gershon, CEO of Sun D’Or: “I welcome the opening of the new route and the operation of direct flights to Sharm el-Sheikh. This is big news, as Sharm is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations for this coming summer – one that combines a sun-and-tan family vacation with extreme sports, scuba diving, and other water sports, all at affordable prices and only an hour’s flight away from Tel Aviv.
“This is the first of several attractive and surprising holiday destinations to be marketed for the upcoming summer season. In addition to flights, we will soon also launch other tourism products and holiday packages from Sun D’Or that will be marketed on the EL AL website and with travel agents.”
Later today, at 14:00, the first Arkia flight will also take off for Sharm, and Israir will join this exodus back into Egypt at 17:15. All flights are full.
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