El Al Introduces New Fare Plan
YERUSHALAYIM –
As it finds itself in increased competition with low-cost carriers, El Al is adopting some of those carriers’ tactics on flights to and from Europe. El Al has begun offering tickets with varying service levels – with tickets as low as $49 one way, depending on the location and service level.
The three levels – Lite, Classic and Flex – mix and match services that are either included, or can be purchased separately. A Lite ticket comes with no specified seats, no meal (a light snack, however, is included), and hand luggage only. A Classic ticket allows passengers to choose a seat and include a suitcase, while a Flex ticket allows for more seating options, as well as priority check-in and boarding.
The prices are competitive with those of low-cost European carriers like WizzAir and RyanAir, El Al said. A Lite ticket to Larnaca, Cyprus, is $49 one way ($99 round trip), while a Classic ticket to that destination is $179 round trip. Round trip to Berlin comes out to $189 ($99 one way), or $269 for a Classic ticket. For a ticket to London, the cheapest option comes out to $389 round trip, compared to $469 for a Classic ticket.
According to El Al Marketing Vice-President Miki Strassburger, “the new model will allow passengers to choose their option in a transparent manner, allowing them to arrange the flight that most suits their needs.” In addition, he said, beginning next year all planes on El Al’s European routes will be 737-800 Boeing planes, with enhanced entertainment and communication services.
Source: Hamodia