El Al Airlines told Reuters in a statement on Thursday it would halt direct flights to Miami starting in September as part of its plan to optimise flight operations.

El Al President and Chief Executive Haim Romano said the unprecedented surge in jet fuel prices had led to a dramatic increase in the cost of operating flights, especially long-range flights.

At current fuel prices and given the size of the market, the economic viability of the route to Miami has been eroded.

The Israeli carrier plans to strengthen its foothold in North America through its direct flights to New York, Los Angeles and Toronto.