Israir to start flights for passengers with Covid-19 antibodies only

Israir Airlines, the Tel Aviv-based air carrier, decided to launch specific domestic air services for passengers who have been vaccinated or already recovered from the COVID-19 virus and have antibodies in their blood. 

According to local media, Israir Airline is set to start special operations from Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) to Eilat-Ramon Airport (ETM) as early as February 23, 2021. The route was chosen following the recent Israeli government restrictions update allowing all hotels in the Eilat city to reopen.

On February 21, 2021, the airline announced that the new service will be provided for those passengers who will provide a “green passport” confirming that travelers had and recovered from the COVID-19 virus, meaning that they have the particular antibodies in their blood either already been fully vaccinated. The airline will also ensure that its crew members, who will operate the specific domestic TLV – ETM flights, will be fully vaccinated as well.

The special air services come as a part of a pilot version of the Israeli “green passport” program that was launched on January 5, 2021. The passports are issued for one year period to those residents of Israel who present a blood test that proves the presence of antibodies in their body. 

Meanwhile, Israelis who test negative for the virus but have not been vaccinated yet, are able to receive a temporary “green passport” valid for three days only.

Initially, the “green passport” holders will be able to visit Eilat and the Dead Sea. At later stages of the program, residents should be allowed to attend cultural and sports events as well as visit malls and more.