IATA: LY | ICAO: IZL | Callsign: EL AL

Headquarters: Tel Aviv, Israel

Primary Hub: Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)

Alliance: Independent (non-alliance)

Overview

El Al is the flag carrier of Israel and a unique case study in high-security aviation operations. Operating from Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), one of the world’s most secure airports, El Al connects Israel with North America, Europe, and select Middle Eastern destinations. The airline is renowned for its security protocols, operational resilience, and leadership in long-haul operations under restricted airspace conditions.

Aerospace Significance

Dual-OEM Fleet Strategy with Long-Haul Focus

El Al operates a modern, mixed-fleet configuration:

• Boeing: 737-800, 787-8/9
• No Airbus fleet (security and maintenance standardization)This focused strategy enables:
• Full Boeing commonality for training and maintenance
• Evaluation of 787 performance on high-security, long-haul routes (e.g., TLV–JFK)
• Study of avionics and cabin modifications for enhanced security

Fleet Lifecycle & Modernization Programs

El Al has implemented comprehensive renewal initiatives:

• Retired older 747s, 767s, and 777s
• Transitioned to 787-8/9 for improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort
• Mid-life cabin retrofits featuring:

1. New Business Class (1-2-1 lie-flat seats)
2. Enhanced Economy with improved IFE

• Structural and avionics upgrades to support RNP AR, ADS-B, and future ATM integration

Sustainability & Emissions Reduction

• Committed to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, with a target of 10% SAF usage by 2030.
• Participates in SAF pilots with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Energy Ministry.
• Implements operational efficiency measures such as:

1. Continuous Descent Approaches (CDA) at TLV
2. Single-engine taxiing
3. Weight reduction (e.g., digital manuals, lighter catering)

Engineering & Maintenance Capabilities

El Al Engineering

Operates a high-security MRO with advanced avionics and structural modification capabilities:

• Performs heavy checks, modifications, and cabin retrofits at TLV
• Specializes in security-integrated aircraft modifications
• FAA and ICAA (Israel) Part 145 certified

Strategic Partnerships & Alliances

No formal alliance; maintains codeshare agreements with:

• United Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Canada, American Airlines

Collaborates with Ben Gurion Airport Authority on:

• Terminal security integration
• GSE electrification and sustainable ground operations

Operational Excellence & Case Studies

High-Security Aircraft Modifications

El Al is a global leader in:

• Armored cockpit doors
• Onboard threat detection systems
• Informs aviation security R&D worldwide

Long-Haul Operations in Restricted Airspace

Frequently reroutes due to regional conflicts:

• Studied for dynamic rerouting, fuel planning, and crew fatigue management

Relevance to Aerospace Research & Development

El Al is a strategic partner in:

• Security-integrated aircraft design
• Composite aircraft maintenance (787)
• SAF adoption and Middle Eastern fuel infrastructure
• Predictive maintenance and AI-driven analytics
• Urban air mobility (UAM) via investment in Urban Aeronautics and Eviation