El Al is launching a broad strategic move to expand its aircraft fleet, as part of a long-term plan to improve operational efficiency, increase seat capacity, and strengthen the passenger service experience.
As part of the move, the company is exercising an option to purchase six additional Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft and expanding the agreement to include the option to acquire up to six more in the future. At the same time, part of the order will be converted to the 787-10 Dreamliner model, considered the most advanced and efficient in the series.
According to the company, the fleet expansion is expected to increase seat availability on international routes, improve flight availability, and expand the destination network, with an emphasis on long-haul flights. In addition, the move is expected to enhance operational efficiency and upgrade the passenger experience across all service classes, including an advanced premium experience.
Upon completion of the plan, El Al’s Dreamliner fleet is expected to grow from 17 aircraft today to approximately 28 aircraft by the end of the decade, with the potential for further expansion to up to 34 aircraft in the future.
The company’s CEO, Levy Halevy, stated that this is a strategic investment aimed at strengthening the company in the long term: “We are making a focused investment in an advanced fleet that creates double value - for both customers and shareholders. Expanding the 787 fleet allows us to increase capacity, improve efficiency, and deliver a flight experience at the highest level.”
Chairman of the Board, Amikam Ben Zvi, added that this is a particularly significant step at the present time: “Signing the procurement agreement with Boeing is tremendous news for El Al. We are building a strong company with a long-term strategy and a clear vision.”
Controlling shareholder Kenny Rozenberg said that the move places El Al alongside the world’s leading airlines: “This is another chapter in El Al’s history, leading it to new heights as a global company that proudly represents Israel.”