Review of EL AL Israel Airlines Business Class

EL AL Israel Airlines stands as Israel's national airline and the flagship carrier of Israel, connecting travelers to Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia. As of June 2025, the airline reaches 53 global destinations across 36 countries, reflecting its steady network expansion.

Established in 1948 in tandem with the founding of the State of Israel, EL AL’s name is drawn from the Hebrew Bible, meaning ‘skyward’—a fitting moniker for an airline with a strong national identity.

EL AL has earned a global reputation for its uncompromising security standards. It remains the only airline whose entire fleet is equipped with advanced countermeasures against missile threats, ensuring unparalleled safety for its passengers.

Operating from its headquarters at Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv, EL AL’s modern all-Boeing fleet comprises 46 aircraft, including 16 B787 Dreamliners, 6 B777s, 16 B737-800s, and 8 B737-900ERs. The addition of the Dreamliner fleet represents the future of EL AL, showcasing the airline's investment in next-generation aircraft and a modernized passenger experience. The airline’s leisure subsidiary, Sun d’Or International Airlines, continues to offer affordable travel to popular Mediterranean and European destinations.

The carrier’s signature look features a crisp Eurowhite fuselage accented by a deep blue stripe, with the Israeli flag and Star of David proudly displayed on the tail. Each aircraft is named after an Israeli city, with the size of the city corresponding to the size of the aircraft.

Frequent flyers can join the Matmid Frequent Flyer Club, which now offers five membership levels: Matmid, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Top Platinum. Members benefit from priority services, enhanced baggage allowances, upgrades, and exclusive lounge access. Managing your account is essential for tracking points and redeeming rewards, and you can top off your balance by transferring points from programs such as Citi ThankYou and Capital One.

While EL AL is not aligned with a global airline alliance, it maintains codeshare relationships with 21 carriers, including Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, American Airlines, Iberia, SWISS, Qantas, TAP Air Portugal, Alaska Airlines, Etihad, and ANA—bolstering its reach and flexibility for premium travelers. Those continuing their journey on Delta can enjoy Delta’s Delta One business class experience on many long-haul routes.

Frequent flyer miles from Qantas can be redeemed for El Al business class tickets, and El Al's business class tickets can be booked through various frequent flyer programs, including Qantas. Travelers who prefer to pay cash rather than use miles can still access discounted business class flights to destinations worldwide, often combining EL AL legs with other premium carriers. Although El Al does not release many award seats, flexibility in travel dates can help in finding them. Passengers can also use American Express Membership Rewards points to top off their Qantas miles for booking El Al flights.

EL AL adheres to tradition by suspending operations during the Jewish Sabbath (Shabbat), from Friday evening to Saturday evening, in respect of cultural and religious practices.

Ben Gurion International Airport, Israel’s primary gateway, is situated just outside Lod, approximately 45 kilometres (28 miles) from Jerusalem and 20 kilometres (12 miles) from central Tel Aviv. Renamed in 1973 to honor Israel’s founding Prime Minister, the airport is renowned for its robust security and efficiency.

Terminal 3, the main international terminal, handles the majority of EL AL’s flights, while Terminal 1 accommodates select domestic and regional services. A complimentary shuttle connects both active terminals for seamless transfers.

El Al passengers must go through a security interview before proceeding to the check-in counters. At Ben Gurion Airport, El Al recommends that passengers arrive three hours before their departure time due to strict security measures. Business Class travelers with EL AL enjoy dedicated check-in desks (100-106) and expedited security and check-in lines—an invaluable advantage given the airport’s famously stringent procedures. Our experience confirms that even with premium access, allowing ample time for security remains prudent.

The generous baggage allowance includes two checked bags (up to 32kg each), two carry-on items (totaling 20kg), and a personal item, catering to the needs of discerning travelers.

The King David Business Lounge, located on Concourse D opposite Gate D1, welcomes EL AL Business Class guests and elite Matmid members. Lounge access opens three hours prior to departure, with one guest permitted per eligible passenger on the same flight. During peak departure times, the lounge can become crowded, which may impact seating availability and overall comfort, much like other regional carriers such as Royal Jordanian’s Crown Business Class lounges in Amman.

Spread across two sunlit levels, the lounge features plush leather seating, a dedicated business center, high-speed Wi-Fi, ample charging points, and a curated selection of international newspapers. The upper mezzanine offers a tranquil retreat with additional seating, a compact buffet, a cigar room, and private shower suites. Guests may also indulge in complimentary spa treatments by Brown Hotels, designed to ease travel-related stress and promote relaxation before long-haul journeys. Some spa treatments are available for an additional pay-per-treatment fee.

The all-Kosher buffet includes an assortment of fresh salads, soups, artisanal pastries, pizza, focaccia, seasonal fruit, and an array of desserts. Premium Israeli wines, spirits, and soft drinks are available throughout the day. While the spread is modest, it is thoughtfully curated for comfort and convenience.

At the gate, El Al implements additional security measures such as hand carry searches and security checks.

EL AL Business Class passengers also have access to partner lounges worldwide, such as the BLUSH lounge at London Heathrow, EXTIME lounge at Paris Charles de Gaulle, and the Virgin Clubhouse at New York JFK. Across the globe, premium travelers can expect similarly elevated lounge and onboard experiences on carriers like Air China’s business class on key Asian routes.

EL AL’s Business Class is offered in both two-cabin (Business and Economy) and three-cabin (Business, Premium Economy, Economy) configurations, depending on the aircraft.

The flagship experience is found on the 16 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, where the cabin exudes understated luxury with warm tan, grey, and brown tones. Each Business Class seat boasts direct aisle access, an expansive footwell, and generous storage. Modern touches include wireless QI charging and jetlite Human Centric Lighting, which adjusts to support circadian rhythms on long-haul flights. The latest upgrade to the business class product brings enhanced comfort, technology, and amenities for travelers.

On the Boeing 787-9, there are 32 Recaro CL6710 fully lie-flat seats (21-inch width, 78-inch bed length) in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing direct aisle access for every passenger. The business class cabin is designed to feel light and airy, thanks to the Dreamliner’s tall windows and the absence of overhead bins over the center seats. Window seats alternate between privacy-focused and aisle-adjacent layouts, while the center seats are ideal for couples or families seeking the best business class seats. The 787-8 features 20 seats with identical specifications. A dedicated bathroom for business class passengers is clean and well-stocked throughout the flight.

Sitting in these seats is comfortable for both work and relaxation, and when it’s time to sleep, the seat converts into a fully flat bed, allowing for restful sleep on long-haul journeys.

Following the recent refurbishment, EL AL’s six Boeing 777s now mirror the Dreamliner’s premium product, with 28 Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 configuration and direct aisle access. The new cabins feature the same Recaro CL6710 seat as the 787s, eliminating First Class in favor of this enhanced Business Class and introducing Premium Economy for the first time on these aircraft.

Previously, the 777s had angle-flat seats in a less attractive 2-3-2 layout, but as of 2025, all 777s have been upgraded to the latest standards, offering a consistent, world-class experience across EL AL’s long-haul fleet.

The Businessclass flight search tool provides comprehensive seat maps, photos, and detailed specifications, allowing you to preview your chosen cabin before booking.

EL AL exclusively serves Mehadrin Kosher cuisine onboard, offering a thoughtfully curated menu that reflects Israel’s culinary heritage and seasonal ingredients. When you book a business class ticket, you can enjoy the benefits of an upgraded meal service, including expedited service and enhanced onboard amenities. All business class meals are completely kosher and presented with a kosher certificate. Menus vary by route and are a highlight of the Business Class journey, featuring vibrant, flavorful dishes presented with finesse on stylish crockery.

Meals are typically served as a single course for efficiency, but guests may request a traditional multi-course presentation for a more leisurely dining experience.

In 2025, EL AL has further elevated its Business Class menu, introducing new signature entrees, expanded plant-based options, and enhanced breakfast offerings. The food service has been upgraded to include a full meal service with stylish presentation. Recent highlights include starters such as smoked salmon with lentil salad, and main courses like grilled Entrecôte steak with bulgur, roasted vegetables, and broccoli, or marinated chicken with jasmine rice, green beans, and roasted eggplant. Desserts such as the chocolate marquise with salted pretzel crust remain a guest favorite.

Breakfast selections feature artisanal spreads—cream cheese, tuna salad, and olive tapenade—alongside a savory cheese frittata in shakshuka sauce, as well as options like a tomato and cheese omelet or blintzes served on elegant dishware.

Advance meal selection is available via EL AL’s website, ensuring personalized service and catering to dietary requirements.

Special meal requests, including vegan, vegetarian (dairy), diabetic, gluten-free, fruit-based, and child-friendly options, are accommodated with advance notice. Early ordering is recommended, as availability may vary by route.

Upon boarding, Business Class guests are welcomed with a drink—a glass of premium Israeli sparkling wine—and fine chocolates. EL AL’s beverage program showcases an extensive array of red and white wines from Israel’s renowned vineyards, reflecting a winemaking tradition that now boasts more than 350 vineyards and annual production exceeding 45 million bottles.

The curated wine list is complemented by a choice of international spirits, specialty cocktails, fresh juices, and a variety of teas and barista-style coffees.

The Businessclass flight search tool details which Champagne and wines are poured in Business and First Class on many airlines. We strive to keep our listings up to date—contact us if you have new insights.

Our journeys with EL AL consistently reveal a high standard of attentive, personalized service in Business Class, with flight attendants who are both professional and warm. Travelers comparing premium cabins can explore in-depth airline reviews across global carriers to see how EL AL’s offering stacks up. The crew’s professionalism is evident, with uniforms in classic navy complemented by a vibrant, signature scarf for female attendants. While the attire is understated, the warmth and efficiency of the staff contribute greatly to the overall premium atmosphere.

EL AL’s in-flight entertainment (IFE) offering varies by aircraft. The Boeing 787 Dreamliners and the refreshed 777s are equipped with large, high-resolution touchscreens and intuitive remote controls for effortless browsing. Each business class seat features a high-definition entertainment screen loaded with a selection of movies, TV shows, and games.

The content library features a robust selection of recent films, acclaimed television series, movies, music playlists, podcasts, and interactive games. Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s section, which includes popular Disney programming and age-appropriate games. El Al has improved its inflight entertainment system, now offering high-definition screens and a wide selection of movies and TV shows. Business class passengers can enjoy a selection of over 300 movies and TV shows for in-flight entertainment.

For the latest IFE lineup, visit EL AL’s official website.

On Boeing 737s and any 777s pending retrofit, traditional seatback screens are absent. Passengers can use the built-in device holder to stream content directly to personal devices via EL AL’s high-speed Wi-Fi network.

Wi-Fi is now available on all Dreamliners, most 777s, and a growing number of 737s, covering routes to Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Three paid tiers—Basic, Social, and Business—are offered: Basic and Social for mobile/tablet use, and Business for full laptop connectivity.

The Businessclass flight search tool also lists detailed information on inflight entertainment and Wi-Fi options for each flight, and you can find more insights in online post reviews about the entertainment experience.

Business Class guests receive a thoughtfully designed amenity kit by Teb Baker, featuring essentials such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, socks, earplugs, an eye mask, and premium L'Occitane hand cream and lip balm. Travelers who appreciate well-curated kits may enjoy exploring the 10 best amenity kits in business class to see how EL AL’s offering compares. On longer journeys, slippers, plush duvets, and comfortable pillows are provided for enhanced rest and relaxation.

When flying El Al in business class, passengers benefit from a notably generous luggage policy designed to make every journey as smooth as possible. Each business class traveler is entitled to two checked bags, each weighing up to 32 kg—ideal for longer trips or those who like to travel with extra comforts. In addition, El Al allows two carry-on bags with a combined weight of up to 8 kg, ensuring that essentials are always within easy reach during the flight.

Security is a top priority for El Al, and this extends to the handling of checked baggage. Before being loaded onto the plane, all bags undergo thorough screening and inspection, providing an added layer of reassurance for passengers flying to destinations such as Tel Aviv and beyond. This meticulous approach is part of what sets El Al apart as Israel’s national airline, giving travelers peace of mind from check-in to arrival.

For those connecting to other destinations, El Al’s partnerships with leading airlines mean that baggage is efficiently transferred, minimizing hassle and ensuring a seamless experience. Travelers planning complex itineraries can use dedicated platforms for finding and booking affordable business class flights worldwide to pair EL AL segments with other premium carriers. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, understanding El Al’s luggage and baggage policies allows you to plan ahead and enjoy your flight with confidence, knowing that your belongings are in safe hands.

For regional and European routes, EL AL deploys the Boeing 737 family. The 737-900 features 16 Business Class recliners (21-inch width, 44-inch pitch) arranged 2-2, while the 737-800 offers a similar product with a 42-inch pitch. These cabins showcase a contemporary seat design by PriestmanGoode, also responsible for the Dreamliner interiors, and provide a solid step up from Economy without reaching the space and exclusivity of typical international first class cabins.

Seats include an adjustable four-way headrest and a versatile tray table with a built-in device stand—ideal for digital entertainment. Impressively, amenity kits are provided even on shorter flights such as Tel Aviv to Paris or London, a rare touch in regional business class. For travelers seeking an even more exclusive experience on select routes or partner airlines, upgrading to luxury first class flights at competitive prices can unlock additional space, privacy, and bespoke service. El Al also operates international routes, including long-haul destinations like Bangkok, further demonstrating the airline's commitment to service quality across its network.

EL AL’s significant investment in its Dreamliner fleet has not only elevated the Business Class experience but also enhanced the way passengers fly, offering greater comfort and efficiency while supporting improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, in line with the airline’s sustainability goals.

Since joining the IATA Environmental Assessment Program, EL AL has continued to advance its environmental strategy. In 2024, the airline operated several long-haul flights powered by up to 35% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), setting new benchmarks for Israeli aviation. The adoption of SAF and ongoing investment in next-generation aircraft underscore EL AL’s commitment to greener operations and responsible travel.

The Businessclass flight search includes CO2 emission data for every flight, scoring higher for the most modern and eco-friendly aircraft.

Tel Aviv stands out as one of the world’s most dynamic cities, and flying El Al business class is the best way to arrive refreshed and ready to explore. As Israel’s national airline, El Al offers frequent flights to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport, providing direct access to the heart of Israeli culture, innovation, and hospitality.

From the moment you step off your El Al flight, you’re treated to a city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern energy. Whether you’re interested in sampling world-class food, exploring vibrant neighborhoods, or relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, Tel Aviv has something for every traveler. Business class passengers enjoy the comfort of spacious window seats and attentive meal service, ensuring you land in Tel Aviv feeling rested and well cared for.

Ben Gurion Airport itself is equipped with everything you need for a pleasant arrival or departure, including high-speed Wi-Fi, a variety of restaurants, and convenient shops. El Al’s renowned service continues on the ground, making your journey complete from start to finish.

Whether your trip is for business or pleasure, flying El Al to Tel Aviv guarantees a unique and memorable experience. With its rich history, thriving nightlife, and welcoming atmosphere, Tel Aviv is a destination that invites you to return time and again—and El Al’s business class is the perfect way to get there.

• Fleet Renewal – The addition of 16 Boeing 787 Dreamliners has transformed EL AL's Business Class and significantly reduced environmental impact.

• Seating – The Recaro CL6710 seat delivers cutting-edge comfort and privacy, setting a new standard for the region.

• Service – While uniforms remain understated, the professionalism and warmth of the Business Class crew consistently impress.