El Al receives approval for domestic operations

Israel Transport Ministry approved a decision to permit El Al Israel Airlines to operate domestic flights between Tel Aviv and Eilat, following positive recommendations by the Israel Civil Aviation Authority (Globes, 04-Feb-2010). The carrier will be allow to operate three times daily service, operating no more than 860 seats per day. It must offer at least a minimum of five flights per week, with no less than 200 seats per day. El Al is also required to keep its international frequent flyer programme separate from domestic operations. Arkia Airlines and Israir Airlines have 30 days to appeal to the High Court of Justice to void the decision. The Transport Ministry will review the effect of El Al's domestic services in six months.