The Israel Ministry of Tourism has announced a new tourism directive to encourage airline operators to fly to Israel’s Red Sea resort, Eilat.

From October 6th the ministry will reimburse airline operators €45 for every passenger flying to Eilat’s Ovda Airport, up to a total of €1 million per annum per airline.

The incentive will remain in place until April 22nd, 2016.

The Israel Government Tourist Office and the UK ministry of tourism have begun discussions with several British and European airlines with regards to the new directive.

Naama Oryan-Kaplan, director for the UK & Ireland at the Israel Government Tourist Office said “Eilat is the perfect winter sun destination for British and Irish holidaymakers.

“We know that direct flights will encourage Brits to visit Eilat and the Red Sea resort and experience the wealth of activities that Eilat has to offer.

“We are currently in discussion with several airlines regarding this new directive and hope to offer new services to Southern Israel later this year.”

Eilat, located on the southernmost tip of Israel, is by far one of the most desirable destinations on the Red Sea.

The destination offers something that is unique to the Red Sea area: visitors can experience beautiful beaches, stunning desert landscapes and the buzz of city life all in one holiday.