In a first, Palestinian and Israeli passengers will sit side by side in the first flight to Cyprus, operated by Arkia Airlines, giving a welcome step in Palestinian-Israeli relations. Spearheaded by Major-General Ghasan Alian, the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) is working with the Shin Bet and the Israel Police “to ensure proper security protocols are in place at Ramon Airport.”
“Arkia Airlines is operating the inaugural service, which is flying forty residents from Bethlehem and Hebron at 11:30 AM to Larnaca. A return flight is scheduled for Friday. The route will also serve Israelis, who will be seated alongside the Palestinian passengers.”
Oz Berkowitz, CEO of Arkia Airlines said, “Until today, flights for Palestinians in a unique framework, and in particular from Ramon Airport, were just a dream. And indeed the dream has been fulfilled.” This flight takes a small step, perhaps, but an important one.
Source: The Times of Israel
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