El Al Expands Long-Haul Fleet with Up to 12 Additional Boeing 787 Dreamliners

El Al Israel Airlines has exercised options for six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and secured rights for six more, potentially adding 12 aircraft to its long-haul fleet. This move, valued at around $1.5 billion, upgrades four orders to the larger 787-10 model seating up to 310 passengers and targets delivery between 2030 and 2032.

The expansion boosts the airline’s Dreamliner count from the current 17 to 28 by decade’s end, with potential growth to 34 by mid-2030s. It directly addresses surging demand for long-haul capacity amid competitors scaling back Israel routes.

Currently operating 17 Dreamliners, El Al aims to increase seat availability, enhance flight frequency, and extend its route network. The 787-10 upgrades provide higher passenger loads on key intercontinental services.

This strategic fleet growth supports operational resilience and market expansion for Israel’s flag carrier, enabling sustained long-haul dominance despite regional challenges.