In radical shift, Israel's El Al airline in talks to buy Airbus planes
El Al is in "serious" talks with Airbus to purchase new planes but continues to negotiate with Boeing as well.
El Al Israel Airlines is reportedly in talks with European manufacturer Airbus to acquire some A321neos to add to its fleet, in what would be a sharp change of strategy for the longtime Boeing customer.
Since the airline was founded in 1948, the same year Israel became a nation, El Al has maintained an all-Boeing fleet due to the country’s close ties with the United States, where Boeing is headquartered. An order for Airbus aircraft would be a significant change in policy.
Dina Ben Tal Ganancia, CEO of the Israeli flag carrier, told Reuters about her plans on Thursday, adding that the airline is also speaking with Boeing about ordering 737 Max jets.
Ben Tal Ganancia said the final decision would likely be made early next year. She said the talks were “serious.”
