El Al and AerCap sign agreement for two Boeing 787-9s in order rejig

El Al Israel Airlines, in collaboration with Ireland-based lessor AerCap, has recently finalized an agreement to acquire two cutting-edge Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. The delivery of these aircraft is scheduled for Q4 2025 and Q1 2026, aligning perfectly with El Al’s strategic plan to expand its fleet to 22 Boeing 787s by 2028, as outlined in their Investor Presentation in May 2023.

Presently, El Al boasts a fleet of 15 Boeing 787 aircraft, including three 787-8s and 12 787-9s, based on data from ch-aviation.com.

Dina Ben Tal Ganancia, the Chief Executive Officer of El Al, expressed her enthusiasm for the agreement, stating that these two new Dreamliners will be crucial additions to the airline’s wide-body fleet. She mentioned that they are strategically adjusting their aircraft acquisition plan to meet their ambitious goals.

In addition to enhancing its airline operations, El Al plans to expand its services to include tour packages, hotels, attractions, and other indirect ancillaries, as mentioned in their May 2023 investor presentation. The company also aims to pursue investments and financial instruments to ensure sustainable growth in the coming years.

Dina Ben Tal Ganancia extended her gratitude to AerCap and Boeing for their support and partnership throughout this process. AerCap, renowned for managing the largest Boeing 787 portfolio, including ordered aircraft, is thrilled to support El Al’s fleet modernization initiative and their commitment to sustainability.

Aengus Kelly, CEO of AerCap, expressed his delight in assisting El Al with the lease of the two new Boeing 787s and praised their dedication to sustainability. The collaboration between El Al and AerCap is expected to contribute significantly to the airline’s continued success.