Bmi to launch Heathrow-Tel Aviv

Bmi has announced that it will begin flights from Heathrow to Tel Aviv next year.

British airline bmi has confirmed that it will launch a daily non-stop service from Heathrow to Tel Aviv on March 13th 2008.

The route will be operated by an Airbus A320 and two classes will be available, with 20 seats in business and 108 spaces in economy.

Bmi said that the route had been planned to ensure connections to various regional airports throughout the UK, including Leeds Bradford, Durham Tees Valley, Manchester and Dublin.

Nigel Turner, the airline's chief executive, said the new route is "tremendous news" as it focuses on a market that offers potential for competition.

"We have every confidence that our presence on this new route will stimulate its competitiveness," Mr Turner said.

"We are committed to delivering a superior product, both on the ground and in the air as well as offering a range of highly competitive fares that will appeal to a wide range of markets."

Bmi has been able to enter the Heathrow-Tel Aviv market as a result of bilateral talks between the UK and Israeli governments.