Arkia said Tuesday it has converted the first Airbus A320 in its fleet to a two-class configuration and will launch business class service to Europe, beginning with its Tel Aviv-Paris route.
The airline said the updated aircraft will make its inaugural flight to Paris on Tuesday, marking a significant step in the company’s European operations. The converted Airbus A320 includes 12 business class seats and 150 economy seats.
Arkia said it plans to convert another A320 to include business class next month, as part of a broader effort to expand its premium flight offerings to additional destinations.
The move follows the success of Arkia’s business class service on routes to New York and destinations in the East, and comes amid growing demand among Israeli travelers for upgraded service on short- and medium-haul flights, the airline said.
“After the success of business class on 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,” Arkia CEO Oz Berlowitz said.
“At the same time, we made an operational adjustment to the fleet and converted our first A320 to a business and economy configuration, a move that allows us to offer a higher-quality and more precise product on shorter routes as well,” he said. “This is a strategic move that expands our range of services and allows passengers to choose the travel experience that suits them.”
The new business class includes 12 spacious seats, full VIP service, increased baggage allowance of two suitcases weighing up to 32 kilograms each in addition to a trolley bag, lounge access, dedicated check-in and boarding lines and an upgraded dining experience with porcelain tableware, an expanded alcohol menu and desserts.
Business class tickets will start at $849, the airline said.