I've been flying El Al for many years, to various destinations. They are a great airline, and they have improved dramatically over the last 5-10 years.
Firstly, there's the security. El Al didn't introduce its security measures after 9/11, it did that way back ago. The security is tight, but I don't agree with the other reviewers claiming the interview is long and tiring (perhaps that's because I'm an Israeli citizen and I am used to flying with them). You're basically asked a few questions, in a pretty casual way. You'll find the person interviewing you asking 'off-topic questions' - don't be fooled, however, even if he looks honest - they are quite skilled in this matter. You'll be asked some questions relating your destination, and where you've coming from. You'd be asked some questions about the items you're carrying in the bag. You don't have to prove anything, they just read your expression. That being said, El Al doesn't do any of the draconian security measures you have with other airlines, especially American airlines: you can take drinks and liquids on board, you don't have to get your shoes inspected (depends on the airport, most don't) and all in all, the security check itself (X-Rays and such) take much less than other airlines.
After you've done with the interview, you proceed and board the aircraft. If you're flying business, you're going to have a priority-boarding.
Secondly, the service is great, and you do feel at home. The staff are usually quite friendly and understanding, even though they sometimes tend to over-smile. You will get very polite service. Flights are not always on time, though, with minor delays. And unlike other reviewers said, it is a NORMAL airline, you don't have to be afraid of them, they don't bite at all. You're going to be offered drinks and tasty snacks, as well as some food, which is better on some flights and inedible on others (that's because they often change their menu depending on the destination). You will have some entertainment in-flight, but if you're not on the 747s 777s, don't expect to have VOD or quality material. Regarding cockpit entry: you won't be able to enter the cockpit, unless on special circumstances. All material on board is available in English and all announcements are read in both English and Hebrew. Same for reading content. As for the seats: they're quite clean and comfy. Legroom is OK and fair enough (in economy).
Lastly, the pilots. Almost all El Al pilots are ex-IAF pilots, and are very skilled at what they do. You won't feel unsafe in El Al. The pilots do know what they're doing - no bumpy landings and such. Once I've flown to Prague with them, and we had to land on a runway that was partly frozen - the pilot did a brilliant job.
Here's a list of the security 'features' on board - in case you want to know:
- All bags pass through a de-compression chamber to detect any kind of bombs. They are also inspected after you check them in.
- There is secret security in plain cloths on board, that is also armed.
- The cabin is secured with double doors: The first door is opened via a secret code, and the second can be only opened after the first door has been closed, and the pilot has confirmed entry by himself (there is a camera there).
- The cabin is separated by a thick metal armor from the baggage section, to provide additional security.
- Some aircraft are rumored to be equipped with automatic anti-missile systems.
I recommend this airline!
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Jan 11th, 2008
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