airHaifa (E2) launches seasonal Haifa (HFA) – Heraklion (HER) service

airHaifa has officially inaugurated its seasonal route between Haifa and Heraklion, establishing another direct air link between northern Israel and the Greek island of Crete. The launch comes at an opportune moment as Mediterranean leisure demand enters its peak season, offering a convenient nonstop option for both holidaymakers and travelers visiting friends and relatives or making small-scale business trips.

The new service carries clear strategic significance, linking one of Israel’s most vibrant coastal urban centers with one of Greece’s most compelling leisure gateways. From Haifa, passengers now gain direct access to Heraklion without the need to connect, shortening total journey time and enhancing the appeal of short regional getaways. For airHaifa, this is more than a simple seasonal addition; it marks another step in the carrier’s ambition to strengthen its presence in the Mediterranean market, where point-to-point travel demand is rebounding strongly.

Under the planned operating schedule, the airline will maintain 2 roundtrips per week on the route. Flights are operated with the ATR 72, a turboprop aircraft well suited to short sectors, supporting efficient operations while providing flexible capacity during the peak travel season.

Haifa is a captivating port city where the slopes of Mount Carmel descend toward the blue Mediterranean, creating a rare backdrop for modern urban life. Its most iconic landmark is the Shrine of the Báb and the Bahá’í Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its perfectly symmetrical terraced design and profound spiritual significance. From its multicultural neighborhoods to its long stretches of coastline, Haifa offers an atmosphere that is open, refined, and rich in historical depth.

Heraklion serves as the gateway to Crete, Greece’s largest island, where golden sunshine, azure seas, and ancient civilization converge in a setting of enduring appeal. From the city, visitors can easily reach the Palace of Knossos, part of the UNESCO-recognized Minoan heritage, preserving the layers of one of Europe’s earliest civilizations. Beyond its historical legacy, Heraklion also draws travelers with its Mediterranean cuisine, lively squares, and relaxed resort atmosphere along the Aegean coast.