Cyprus-based TUS Airways approved to launch Israel’s 5th airline, to begin flights in 2026
TUS Airways, based in Cyprus, has received approval by Israel’s Transportation Ministry to launch “TUS Israel,” which will be the fifth Israeli airline.
TUS Airways, which continued to operate flights to and from Israel throughout most of the war in Gaza, is owned by Israel-based Holiday Lines.
“We are excited to contribute to strengthening Israel’s civil aviation, expanding travel options and offering accessible, reliable service,” the company said according to a report from Ynet News. “TUS Israel, alongside TUS Cyprus and Blue Bird, will fly to a range of destinations, enhancing competition for the benefit of Israeli consumers.”
Transportation Minister Miri Regev praised the development in a statement announcing the approval.
“This is both a consumer and strategic breakthrough,” she said. “It will expand competition, increase destination options and help lower airfares. TUS IL is the second airline to join Israel’s fleet during my tenure, following the launch of Air Haifa, which is already operational.”
Nir Dayan, TUS Israel’s CEO, told Ynet News that the company is “focused on aligning everything with Israeli aviation regulations,” and they are “hoping to be ready by the first quarter of 2026, with flights starting in the second quarter.”
The company plans to operate flights to both Europe and the Gulf.
While many airlines have canceled their flights during the war, there are still a number of flights coming in and out of Israel on a daily basis.
According to an Israeli flight tracker, Monday saw approximately 64,500 passengers arriving to or leaving Israel, on 381 international flights.
The All Israel News Staff is a team of journalists in Israel.
