Booking & Website/App Experience with El Al
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
The booking process with El Al receives mixed feedback from passengers. While some travelers find the website functional for basic tasks, many report significant frustration, especially with online check-in. Issues include the website not accepting booking codes or ticket numbers, and unresponsive customer support channels such as WhatsApp and phone lines. These technical and support shortcomings can make the pre-flight experience unnecessarily stressful and time-consuming for customers.
Check-in Process with El Al
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Check-in at the airport is often described as chaotic and inefficient. Long lines and overwhelmed staff are common complaints, with some passengers waiting hours to check in luggage due to late-arriving ground staff. Security procedures are thorough, which some passengers appreciate for safety, but others find intrusive and discriminatory, particularly during personal questioning and extra luggage checks. While some travelers have smooth experiences when arriving early, the inconsistency is a recurring theme.
Airport Experience for El Al
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
The airport experience with El Al is closely tied to the check-in process. Many passengers report feeling stressed due to long waits and unclear procedures. Security is tight, which provides reassurance for some, but can feel excessive and uncomfortable for others. The overall atmosphere at the airport is often described as hectic, with limited staff support during busy periods.
Punctuality of El Al
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
El Al’s punctuality record is inconsistent. While some flights depart and arrive on time, there are numerous reports of significant delays, including flights postponed multiple times for several hours. Passengers express frustration at the lack of clear communication and compensation for these delays, feeling that their time is not respected. According to a recent ranking, El Al scored poorly for punctuality compared to other international airlines.
In-flight Comfort & Cleanliness of El Al
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
The in-flight comfort varies by cabin class and aircraft. Economy class is often described as cramped, with limited legroom making long flights uncomfortable. However, Premium Economy and Business Class receive praise for better seat pitch, width, and general comfort, especially on newer aircraft like the Boeing. Cleanliness standards are generally acceptable, with blankets provided and cabins maintained, though some passengers note the overall environment is basic and lacks luxury touches.
In-flight Services of El Al
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Service from cabin crew is a mixed bag. Some passengers find staff friendly, attentive, and quick to respond to requests, with free snacks and drinks available on certain routes. Others, however, have encountered rude or indifferent crew, and note that service can be inconsistent depending on the flight and staff. The in-flight entertainment system is outdated on some aircraft, with limited content selection, though newer planes offer a better experience.
Food & Beverages of El Al
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Food quality is a frequent point of criticism. Many passengers find the meals bland, with limited options and lackluster taste, especially in Economy. Business and Premium Economy classes fare better, with meals served on china and a wider selection, but even here, some travelers are disappointed by the lack of choice if seated towards the back of the cabin. Hot drinks and snacks are available, but not always advertised, so passengers need to ask.
Baggage Handling of El Al
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
Baggage handling is another area where El Al receives negative feedback. Passengers report long waits to check in luggage and strict enforcement of baggage weight limits, with high fees for overweight bags or selecting specific seats. Some also mention issues with lost or delayed luggage, though these are less frequent than complaints about the check-in process itself.
Value for Money of El Al
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
El Al is often perceived as expensive, especially given the level of service and comfort provided. Since the Israel-Hamas conflict, prices have increased significantly, with accusations of price gouging and reduced availability of affordable tickets. Many passengers feel that the airline charges extra for services that used to be included, such as seat selection and checked baggage, reducing the overall value for money.
Overall Experience of El Al
Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
El Al delivers a mixed experience. While some passengers appreciate the airline’s strong security and occasional friendly service, many find the journey stressful due to inefficient check-in, frequent delays, cramped seating, and mediocre food. The inconsistent service and high prices further detract from the overall experience, making El Al a less attractive option unless no alternatives are available.
Final Verdict of El Al
El Al Israel Airlines offers robust security and, on occasion, attentive service, but struggles with operational efficiency, comfort, and value. The airline’s high prices, frequent delays, and inconsistent service make it difficult to recommend for most travelers, especially when other options are available. For those prioritizing security and direct routes to Israel, El Al remains a reliable—if expensive—choice. However, for comfort, value, and a smooth travel experience, many passengers suggest looking elsewhere unless El Al is the only feasible option.