Hanoi, May 13 -- Arkia Israeli Airlines on May 12 announced plans to launch direct flights from Tel Aviv to Ho Chi Minh City, marking a further expansion of the carrier's operations in Vietnam. The new route is scheduled to begin in October 2026, complementing the airline's Hanoi service introduced earlier this year. Arkia CEO Oz Berlowitz described the launch of the Ho Chi Minh City route as "the right move" following the initial success of the Hanoi service. The new route is part of Arkia's strategy to expand long-haul flights and strengthen its presence in Asia, he said, adding that the service will offer Israeli travellers greater flexibility and convenience when visiting Vietnam. Arkia's Chief Commercial Officer Sapir Ifargan said the ...