Arkia CEO Discusses AI and Aviation Challenges at Tel Aviv IT Conference
At the Israel IT Conference 2026 in Tel Aviv, Arkia CEO Oz Berlovitz discussed AI's limited impact on ticket prices, noting a 20% workforce reduction via automation amidst ongoing operational and international route challenges.
The Israel Information Technology Conference 2026 took place today at Expo Tel Aviv, bringing together approximately 3,000 senior executives and industry professionals. Initiated by ITech Israel, the conference centered on leveraging technological advancements to accelerate economic growth and reinforce the country's leading global standing.
The Impact of AI on Aviation
Participating in a panel discussion titled "The AI Storm," Arkia CEO Oz Berlovitz addressed how artificial intelligence is reshaping the aviation sector. He noted that aviation remains one of the least technologically progressive industries, pointing out that jet speeds and fuel consumption have largely stagnated since 1957. While automation optimizes internal processes—helping Arkia reduce headcount by 20% without sacrificing service quality—Berlovitz emphasized that AI will not lower ticket prices or replace pilots.
"The aviation industry is one of the least technologically advanced. Even if a plane could fly without pilots tomorrow, I am not sure people would agree to board it. Ultimately, fuel prices remain a major factor, and AI alone will not change that."
Operational Challenges and Expansion
Berlovitz also highlighted unique hurdles facing Israeli carriers, including aircraft leasing structures and foreign crew management. He updated attendees on international routes, stating that planned flights to Tokyo remain stalled due to regional regulatory hurdles regarding Portuguese-registered aircraft operated by Arkia. Meanwhile, the airline has doubled its flights to Hanoi, Vietnam, which has rapidly emerged as a highly sought-after destination.
The conference featured over 120 speakers across 10 professional tracks, including prominent figures from the high-tech, defense, and financial sectors, discussing artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and national economic resilience.
