EL AL Finalizes Deal for up to 31 Boeing 737 MAX Jets: What you need to know

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and EL AL Israel Airlines have officially confirmed the Israeli national carrier’s purchase agreement for up to 31 Boeing 737 MAX jets. This landmark deal supports EL AL’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet, marking the largest aircraft order in the airline’s 76-year history.

“This is a pivotal moment for EL AL, enabling us to offer our customers the most advanced service and technology available in the industry,” said Dina Ben-Tal Ganancia, CEO of EL AL Israel Airlines. “This long-term procurement plan, which began earlier this year with the acquisition of additional 787 Dreamliners and now culminates with this latest deal, underscores our unwavering commitment to the Israeli public and our nation.”

Ben-Tal Ganancia emphasized EL AL’s vital role in maintaining Israel’s open skies, noting that the airline’s strategic plan aims to expand its fleet, enhance customer value, and increase seating capacity. This approach will ensure the airline’s continued strength and growth for many years to come.

The new 737 MAX jets will provide EL AL with superior per-seat economics, enhanced environmental performance, and improved passenger comfort. Notably, these aircraft are designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by 20% compared to the older planes they will replace, and they feature a 50% smaller noise footprint.

“We are honored that EL AL has chosen Boeing aircraft to continue powering its fleet,” said Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Our partnership with EL AL spans over seven decades, and we look forward to delivering the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner jets that will help reshape and grow the airline in the coming years.”

This latest 737 MAX order follows EL AL’s earlier purchase of three additional 787-9 aircraft, with options for six more, as part of the airline’s expansion of its Dreamliner fleet. The carrier is set to receive a new 787-9 this year, with two more to follow on lease in the coming years.

Boeing, a leading global aerospace company, designs, manufactures, and services commercial airplanes, defense products, and space systems for customers in over 150 countries. As a major U.S. exporter, Boeing collaborates with a global network of suppliers to drive economic opportunity, sustainability, and community impact. The company remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and a corporate culture rooted in safety, quality, and integrity.