El Al’s Ambitious Expansion: A Sign of Recovery and Shifting Aviation Dynamics
El Al Israel Airlines is embarking on its most significant network expansion since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023, adding nine new destinations across Asia and Europe. This move signals a growing confidence in the recovery of both the airline and the broader Israeli aviation sector, which faced substantial disruption following the conflict.
New Routes and Regional Focus
The expansion includes three new long-haul routes to Asia: Hanoi, Vietnam (launching October 24th); Seoul, Korea (planned for March 2027); and Manila, Philippines (date to be determined, subject to regulatory approval). These routes will operate three times weekly. Currently, El Al’s Asia-Pacific network comprises Bangkok (12 flights weekly), Phuket (3 flights weekly), and Tokyo Narita (2 flights weekly). The airline previously served Beijing, Mumbai, Shanghai, and Hong Kong before the pandemic.
Alongside the Asian expansion, El Al’s leisure subsidiary, Sun d’Or International Airlines, will introduce six seasonal European destinations starting May 24th: Basel, Switzerland; Copenhagen, Denmark; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Cagliari, Sardinia; Catania, Sicily; and Zagreb, Croatia. Additional European routes to Salzburg, Austria, and Varna, Bulgaria, are similarly planned, alongside the resumption of flights to Naples, Italy.
Rebuilding After Disruption
The expansion comes as El Al works to rebuild its network after the October 7th attacks and the subsequent conflict, which led to the suspension of services by many international carriers. During this period, El Al effectively held a monopoly on many routes, including those to London, New York, Paris, Bangkok, Tokyo, and Los Angeles.
Price Gouging Allegations and Regulatory Scrutiny
El Al is currently facing a potential record fine of $39 million from the Israel Competition Authority, alleging “excessive and unfair” fare increases during the war. The investigation focused on the period between October 7, 2023, and May 2024, concluding that El Al took advantage of its dominant position to maintain unusually high ticket prices. The airline disputes these claims, stating that a reported 16% average fare increase does not constitute excessive pricing. A hearing will determine the final outcome.
Western Europe Remains Key
Despite the push into Asia, Western Europe remains El Al’s largest regional market, accounting for 48% of its total capacity. The airline is offering 532,516 seats across its network in February 2026, a 4% increase year-on-year. El Al currently serves 44 international destinations from Tel Aviv, in addition to a domestic route to Eilat.
The Broader Implications for Aviation
El Al’s expansion reflects a broader trend in the aviation industry: a gradual return to normalcy after the disruptions of the past few years. While geopolitical instability continues to pose challenges, airlines are increasingly confident in the resilience of demand for both leisure and business travel. The airline’s success in maintaining routes during a period when many competitors suspended services highlights the importance of adaptability and strategic positioning in a volatile environment.
The resumption of flights by Delta and United, expected after periods of suspension due to the conflict, further underscores this trend.
FAQ
Q: When will El Al begin service to Hanoi?
A: October 24th.
Q: What is the potential fine El Al faces?
A: $39 million.
Q: Which region is El Al’s largest market?
A: Western Europe, accounting for 48% of total capacity.
Q: How many new destinations are being added in total?
A: Nine.
Did you know? El Al recorded record revenues of $3.4 billion in 2024, a 37% increase from the previous year.
Pro Tip: Booking flights well in advance, especially during peak season, can often secure better fares.
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