From the Liveblog of
Thursday, August 15, 2024
El Al inks deal with Boeing for up to 31 737 MAX planes to replace short-haul fleet
El Al and Boeing confirm a deal for Israel’s national carrier to purchase up to 31 737 MAX aircraft to replace its aging short-haul fleet.
According to the deal, El Al would purchase 20 units of the new model for $1.5 billion, with the option to add 11 more for an extra billion dollars.
The aircraft are expected to begin in 2028 to replace the airline’s current 737-800 and 737-900 fleet.
“This is a significant milestone for El Al, which will allow us to offer our customers the most advanced service and technology experience in the industry,” El Al CEO Dina Ben-Tal Ganancia says, according to a statement. “The implementation of the long-term procurement plan, which began with the purchase of additional 787 Dreamliners earlier this year and culminates in the current deal, once again demonstrates our commitment to the Israeli public and the state.”
“EL AL has a central role in ensuring open skies for Israel. The implementation of our strategic plan — which aims to expand the fleet, increase the value proposition for customers and increase capacity and seating — will ensure a strong and growing company for many years to come,” she adds.
Boeing president and CEO Stephanie Pope says the airline manufacturer is “honored” to have the Israeli carrier as a customer.
“We know El Al depends on the versatility and reliability of Boeing airplanes, and we look forward to delivering the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner jets that will reshape and grow the airline in the coming decades,” she says.
