On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, the Italian National Tourist Board in New York City, in collaboration with NEOS and the Regions of Basilicata and Puglia, hosted a special presentation to announce the launch of NEOS Air’s new non-stop flight from JFK to Bari. The event drew a full house and featured a musical performance by Matera-born composer Joe Johnson, along with an exciting raffle for two round-trip tickets.
Starting June 3, 2025, NEOS will expand its international network with a new direct route connecting New York’s JFK Airport to Bari’s “Karol Wojtyla” Airport. This new service represents a significant milestone for NEOS, a subsidiary of Alpitour World, as it continues to grow its scheduled flight operations.
Flights depart from New York every Tuesday at 4:00 PM (local time) and arrive in Bari on Wednesday at 8:00 AM. The return flight will depart from Bari at 11:30 AM the same day, landing in New York at 1:50 PM.
This new route offers American travelers a seamless way to explore Puglia, one of Italy’s most captivating regions. Known for its stunning coastlines, rich history, and exceptional cuisine, Puglia has long been a favorite among Italians but remains a hidden gem for international visitors. The seasonal flights, available through October 15, will be operated on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, featuring both premium and economy class options.
Bari, the capital of the Apulia region, offers breathtaking landscapes, from the crystal-clear waters of Salento’s beaches to the dramatic cliffs of Gargano National Park and the iconic Trulli houses of Alberobello. Rich in history and culture, the region is home to UNESCO-listed Castel del Monte and the stunning Baroque architecture of Lecce, making Puglia a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience away from the crowds.
Antonio Maria Vasile, President of Aeroporti di Puglia, called the Bari-New York direct flight a landmark achievement, capping an exceptional year for the region’s airports.
“This flight is not a coincidence—we envisioned, planned, and built it with determination to propel Puglia into a new era of international connectivity,” Vasile stated. “Seeing a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner land in Bari soon is a testament to our vision of making the region more accessible to the world.”
He emphasized that this is just the beginning, with more routes to follow. “Our goal is clear: to invest in new connections and infrastructure, transforming Puglia’s airports into engines of economic and tourism growth. We are shaping a future of opportunity, accessibility, and global reach.”
Carlo Stradiotti, CEO of Neos, expressed confidence in Puglia’s growing aviation market, highlighting its rising prominence in Italy’s airport network.
“Passenger numbers at Apulian airports continue to grow, and we aim to carry around 12,700 travelers in our first year of operation,” Stradiotti stated. “Following our successful Sicily-U.S. connection, we are expanding further by linking New York with another key Italian region.”
With this addition, Neos will offer daily flights from New York to Italy, including three weeklies from Milan, two from Palermo, and one from Bari, strengthening both leisure and business travel between the two countries.
“Apulia has always shared a special bond with the United States,” said Tracy Roberts-Pounds, U.S. Consul General in Naples. With over 18 million Americans of Italian descent, many dream of visiting their ancestral homeland, fueling the growing market of root tourism.
“This new direct flight between Bari and New York will not only create new opportunities in the tourism sector but also support Puglia’s young talent, fostering innovation and prosperity for future generations.”
Neos continues to expand its routes while maintaining high standards of service. Flights are available for booking at www.neosair.it (Italy) and www.neosair.com (U.S.), through Neos sales offices in New York, major OTAs, Italian travel agencies, and the American market via GSA APG, as well as the Amadeus and Sabre GDS platforms.
With the new NEOS direct flight from New York, Puglia is now more accessible than ever making it the ideal time to explore one of Italy’s most enchanting and hidden gems. Wander through the lively streets of Bari’s Old Town, where history and charm meet. Visit the iconic Trulli houses of Alberobello, a fairy-tale village frozen in time. Experience the pristine waters of Salento’s beaches, the dramatic cliffs of Gargano National Park, and the awe-inspiring Baroque beauty of Lecce.
Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, Puglia boasts an exceptional culinary heritage, with specialties like panzerotti, orecchiette pasta, and taralli waiting to delight your taste buds. The region is not only a haven for history lovers and beachgoers but also a place where local traditions are celebrated with warmth and passion.
Whether you’re drawn by the beauty, the culture, or the cuisine, Puglia offers a journey that will leave you feeling connected to Italy’s roots in a way few places can. Don’t miss the chance to experience this vibrant region—your Italian escape awaits.
By Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide
