El Al Israel Airlines Explores Narrowbody Aircraft Purchase from Boeing or Airbus

El Al Israel Airlines, the flagship carrier of Israel based at Tel Aviv Ben Gurion, is advancing in its strategic plans to rejuvenate its short-haul fleet, engaging in negotiations with both Boeing and Airbus for a potential purchase. Dina Ben-Tal Ganancia, the Chief Executive of El Al, indicated in a conversation with Reuters that a decision regarding this significant fleet expansion is anticipated within the year.

The airline’s procurement discussions have faced delays, attributed to the ongoing global supply chain challenges and regional security concerns, which have somewhat deterred representatives from visiting Israel. Despite these obstacles, El Al is pushing forward with its intentions to modernize and expand its narrowbody fleet to better serve its routes efficiently.

El Al’s current fleet consists of 44 aircraft, with an average fleet age of 15.6 years, including fifteen Boeing 737-800s, one 737-800(BCF), eight 737-900ERs, four 777-200ERs, four 787-8s, and twelve 787-9s. Additionally, it wet-leases an A300-600R(F) from SM Executive Aviation. The airline’s leasing partnerships span across nine prominent leasing firms, including AerCap and Air Lease Corporation, among others, highlighting its diversified aircraft acquisition strategy.

A decision to order from Airbus would mark a historic shift for El Al, which has traditionally sourced its fleet from Boeing. This potential move could signify a significant strategic pivot, aiming to bolster the airline’s operational efficiency and passenger experience with newer, state-of-the-art narrowbody aircraft.

As the airline evaluates its options, the aim is to manage a narrowbody fleet of between 28 to 31 aircraft by 2021, underscoring its commitment to growth and modernization. El Al is currently assessing whether to directly purchase the aircraft from the manufacturers or to proceed with leasing the new airframes, a decision that will have long-term implications for its fleet strategy and operational capabilities.

This upcoming fleet decision by El Al Israel Airlines is poised to be a pivotal moment in the carrier’s history, potentially transforming its short-haul operations and enhancing its competitive stance in the global aviation market.