El al is to triple the number of flights it runs to Luton airport.

From March the airline, Israel's national carrier, will be operating six weekly flights - up from just two a week - to the airport, which is just north of London.

That number will rise by another five in June, meaning that by the summer 22 flights will operate from Tel Aviv into London and the surrounding area every week.

Travellers can take advantage of special flight prices starting at £327 to celebrate the introduction of the new timetable.

Members of El Al's frequent flyers' "Matmid club" will also be able to access a new lounge area being installed at Luton.

David Maimon, vice-president of commercial and aviation ties for El Al, said the move would make travel between London and Tel Aviv more accessible.

"London is a highly popular destination for ElL Al passengers. It is an attractive year-round tourist destination as well as a business destination for thousands of Israeli business travellers every month," he said. "With its expanded frequencies, El Al can offer both business travellers and vacationers the most attractive flight schedule to this destination."