As more foreign airlines resume Israel operations, cheaper alternatives to El Al on flights to the US and east Asia are found. Flights between Israel and long-haul destinations have become expensive with El Al having a virtual monopoly. However, with the return of many foreign airlines, there are now more options for connection flights at considerably cheaper fares. Foreign airlines such as Air Europe, Blue Bird, and Wizz Air are resuming flights to and from Ben Gurion airport. UAE carriers like Etihad Airways and flyDubai also offer connection flights to Asia and Oceania. While connection flights are more inconvenient, they provide a cheaper alternative to direct flights.