El Al Israel Airlines announced it will acquire up to 12 more Boeing 787 Dreamliners in a $1.5 billion deal, exercising options for six 787-9s and converting four options into advanced 787-10s.
The firm order covers six 787-9s with deliveries starting between 2030 and 2032, while the converted 787-10s—more efficient for long-haul routes—arrive in the same period. Options for six additional 787s target deliveries from 2033 to 2035, bolstering capacity on high-demand U.S. and Asia flights.
This amendment capitalizes on El Al’s market dominance in Israel amid ongoing Gaza and Iran conflicts, which have sidelined competitors.
The carrier will assess financing nearer delivery dates. This follows its 2024 order of three 787-9s with options for six more, plus a separate up-to-31 Boeing 737 MAX deal valued at up to $2.5 billion for short-haul fleet replacement starting 2028.
Historically, El Al committed to up to nine 787s in 2015 and leased six others to expand from Ben Gurion Airport. The expansion enhances operational flexibility and long-haul competitiveness amid regional challenges.