Overview
EL AL Israel Airlines offers a flexible flight change policy to accommodate passengers' evolving travel needs. Changes to flight bookings, such as travel dates, times, or seats, can be made based on ticket type, fare rules, and availability. Modifications can typically be requested online, through customer service, or at the airport, subject to applicable fees and fare differences.
Key Points of the Policy
- Eligibility for Changes: Passengers can modify travel dates, times, or seats within the ticket's validity period, depending on availability and fare conditions. Changes are subject to the rules of the purchased ticket type.
- Change Fees: Fees vary based on ticket type, route, and timing of the change. Flexible tickets may incur lower or no fees, while non-flexible or promotional fares may have higher charges or restrictions.
- Fare Differences: If the new flight has a higher fare, passengers must pay the difference in addition to any change fees.
- Free Changes: Changes made within 24 hours of booking may be free if the booking is at least seven days before departure, though fare differences may apply. This aligns with EL AL’s 24-hour cancellation policy.
- Name Changes: Minor name corrections are allowed with possible fees, but full name changes are generally not permitted. The name on the ticket must match the passenger’s government-issued ID.
- Travel Vouchers: If a change results in a non-refunded amount, passengers may receive a travel voucher for future use, valid for a specified period, but no cash refund is provided for the unused portion.
- Special Circumstances: In cases of flight disruptions due to airline-controlled issues, such as cancellations, passengers may be eligible for fee waivers, rebooking, or compensation, subject to applicable laws.
How to Change a Flight
Passengers can modify their bookings through the following methods:
- Online: Use the EL AL website or mobile app to access the Manage Booking feature, select new flight options, and pay any applicable fees or fare differences.
- Customer Service: Contact EL AL’s customer service for assistance with complex changes or special requests, such as name corrections or itinerary adjustments.
- At the Airport: Visit an EL AL counter for in-person support, ensuring changes are completed before check-in deadlines.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Make changes as early as possible to avoid higher fees or limited availability.
- Review fare rules at booking to understand change restrictions.
- Consider adding EL AL Protect Service for added flexibility, which may allow cancellations with a full voucher refund for an additional fee.
- Keep travel documents handy when requesting changes, especially for name corrections.
- Contact EL AL directly for bookings made through travel agencies, as agency-specific terms may apply.
Important Notes
Changes for bookings involving partner airlines are subject to the most restrictive fare rules. Passengers should use official EL AL channels to avoid complications. For flights to or from Israel, EL AL complies with the Israeli Aviation Services Law, and for EU/UK departures, EC 261 regulations may apply, offering additional protections for delays or cancellations. Always check the latest policy details with EL AL’s customer service for specific situations.
