The new service marks the airline’s first South American gateway since 2011 and adds, for the first time, a non-stop connection to the farthest destination in its route network.
The airline will operate two weekly flights using its new Dreamliner aircraft, with three service classes: Economy, Premium and Business. Flight time is expected to be approximately 16.5 hours outbound from Israel and around 15.5 hours on the return journey. Ticket sales for the route are expected to open in May.
Through its codeshare partnership with Aerolíneas Argentinas and other partners, EL AL will offer onward connections from Buenos Aires to destinations across Argentina and the wider continent. The new route will complement the airline’s existing access to South America via European gateways.
According to the announcement, the launch is expected to strengthen ties between Israel and South America, particularly with the Jewish community in Argentina, described as the fifth largest in the world and currently the largest Jewish community without non-stop flights to Israel. The new service is also expected to support tourism, business and diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The airline said the route also responds to rising demand for Argentina and South America more broadly, a trend that has intensified since 7 October among both Israeli travellers and businesses operating in the region.
The expansion of EL AL’s route network is linked to the growth of the group’s fleet under its fleet renewal programme and forms part of the airline’s long-term strategy to expand operations and strengthen its international presence.
“The launch of the non-stop flight between Tel Aviv and Buenos Aires is a move of strategic, diplomatic and national importance, born out of close cooperation with the State of Israel and a deep commitment to strengthening the relationship between the two countries. The new non-stop flight reflects the strong bond between Israel and Argentina. For EL AL, this is a historic and exciting flight, the longest we will operate, expanding our international network and reinforcing Israel’s connection to the world, even in a complex reality.”
In a separate statement, Amikam Ben Zvi, Chairman of the EL AL Board of Directors, said: “The opening of the non-stop flight between Israel and Argentina, which we have worked on over recent months in cooperation with the State of Israel, is a welcome development. For us, this is a historic and exciting flight that reflects our commitment to expanding Israel’s connection to the world. We are proud to continue building the aviation infrastructure that connects Israel globally and to ensure that the Israeli flag continues to fly proudly, even in distant gateways.”
Significant expansion of the 787 Dreamliner fleet
Also, EL AL is exercising options for six Boeing 787-9 aircraft and expanding the agreement to include additional options to acquire up to six more aircraft at a later date. In addition, some of the aircraft from the existing 787-9 order book will be upgraded to the Boeing 787-10, the highest capacity and most advanced and efficient model in the Dreamliner family.
The move is expected to allow EL AL to offer more seats, significantly improve flight availability and support the expansion of the route network, particularly on long-haul routes, while enhancing operational efficiency.
The expanded fleet will substantially upgrade the customer offering, with a strong focus on an advanced premium experience across all cabins, improved comfort and full alignment with the highest standards of the international aviation market. EL AL’s Dreamliner fleet is expected to grow from 17 aircraft today to 28 aircraft by the end of the decade, with the potential to expand further to up to 34 aircraft, reinforcing the company’s position as a significant player in the international aviation market.
Levy Halevy, EL AL CEO, said: “We are making a focused investment in an advanced fleet that creates dual value for both our customers and our shareholders. Expanding the 787 Dreamliner fleet enables us to increase capacity, improve efficiency and deliver a flight experience at the highest standard. This is a core pillar of our strategy to build a modern, profitable and market-leading airline.”
Amikam Ben Zvi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of EL AL, said: “Especially at this time, signing such a significant agreement with Boeing, which enables the acquisition of six additional Dreamliner aircraft along with further purchase options, is outstanding news for EL AL. We are building a strong company with long-term strategy and vision, featuring a broad and innovative fleet led by the world’s most advanced 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The company’s business resilience is stronger than ever, and thanks to the dedication of EL AL’s people, it will continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.
Kenny Rozenberg, a Controlling Shareholder of EL AL, said: “Time and again, we are privileged to position EL AL, the Israeli airline with its exceptional human diversity and unique character, alongside the world’s leading and largest airlines. This is another chapter in EL AL’s history that will elevate it to new heights, as one of the world’s leading airlines, proudly representing Israel.”
Tags: Buenos Aires Aerolíneas Argentinas Levy Halevy, EL AL Amikam Ben Zv
