Bmi launches to Tel Aviv

Bmi, the second largest airline at Heathrow Airport, has launched its new daily non-stop connection to Tel Aviv, Israel.

The service, which commenced on March 13th, brings the total number of destinations served by bmi from Heathrow this summer to 38.

It has also been coordinated to offer connections with services to and from regional hubs including Manchester Airport, Leeds/Bradford Airport and Durham Tees Valley Airport.

According to the airline, the development is the latest phase in its "successful mid-haul route strategy".

Speaking on the day of the launch, bmi chief executive officer Nigel Turner said: "Tel Aviv is a key destination in the Middle East and I'm delighted that today we launch daily non-stop services.

"Its addition further enhances our ever-growing network of destinations in an area of economic growth and development."

Mr Turner claimed that bmi's belief that Tel Aviv has the potential for greater competition has been borne out by booking numbers, which exceeded expectations, and rival airlines reducing their fares.