El Al Adds Destinations for 2026

Key Takeaways

• Nine new routes added, three mainline, six Sundor.
• Hanoi launches Oct 25 with three weekly 787 flights.
• Seoul service starts March 2027, three weekly 787 flights.
• Manila planned, three weekly 787 flights, start date TBD.
• Summer European routes run May‑Oct with 737s via Sundor.

Summary

Israel’s flag carrier El Al announced nine new routes, split between three mainline Boeing 787 services and six seasonal flights operated by its low‑cost arm Sundor. The airline will begin three‑weekly flights to Hanoi on Oct 25 and to Seoul in March 2027, with a future Manila service also slated for three weekly 787 flights. During the summer, Sundor will add six European destinations—including Copenhagen, Catania and Dubrovnik—running May 24‑Oct 24 with 737 aircraft. The expansion broadens El Al’s footprint across Asia and Europe.

Pulse Analysis

El Al’s latest route rollout reflects a broader industry trend of legacy carriers diversifying their networks to capture emerging demand corridors. By allocating three new long‑haul services to its mainline fleet, the airline leverages the fuel‑efficient Boeing 787 to offer competitive schedules between Tel Aviv and fast‑growing Asian hubs. This move not only enhances connectivity for business travelers and tourists but also positions El Al to compete more aggressively against regional rivals such as Turkish Airlines and Emirates, which have long dominated these routes.

The Asian additions—Hanoi, Seoul and the pending Manila service—signal a strategic pivot toward Southeast and East Asian markets where outbound Israeli travel is on the rise. Deploying the 787’s range and passenger comfort aligns with expectations of higher yield yields on premium cabins, while three‑weekly frequencies provide a balance between market testing and operational flexibility. These routes also open new cargo opportunities, supporting trade flows between Israel’s tech sector and the manufacturing bases of Vietnam, South Korea and the Philippines.

On the European front, Sundor’s seasonal 737 operations target leisure travelers seeking Mediterranean and Central European destinations during peak summer months. By using a low‑cost subsidiary, El Al can offer price‑competitive fares without diluting its main brand’s premium perception. The May‑October window captures high‑season demand, boosting ancillary revenues from tourism, hospitality partnerships, and airport services. This dual‑track strategy—premium long‑haul growth paired with cost‑effective seasonal routes—positions El Al to diversify its revenue streams and improve resilience against market volatility.