El Al to fly record winter frequency from Heathrow 

El Al is ramping up frequency from Heathrow to a record 15 flights a week as demand returns for travel to Israel despite the ongoing Gaza conflict.

 

The airline is adding four flights a week between the London hub and Tel Aviv and will run up to three daily flights for the first time on the route this winter.

 

The enhanced Heathrow schedule from the end of October is in addition to five flights a week from Luton airport to bring the total serving the London area up to 20 weekly departures.

 

All Heathrow flights will be operated using wide-body aircraft, offering hundreds of seats to meet demand, according to the Israeli carrier.

 

“This expansion is designed to meet growing demand from business travellers, Jewish and Israeli communities, and tourism between the two countries,” an statement from the airline said.

 

El Al maintains multiple partnerships with airlines operating out of Heathrow, most notably Virgin Atlantic, which includes a frequent flyer programme agreement. 

 

Commercial and industry affairs vice president Shlomi Zafrany said: “This is a significant development for our customers—for the first time, El Al will operate 15 weekly flights to and from Heathrow, Europe’s most in-demand airport. London is a key gateway, both for business and tourism. 

 

“Expanding our operations will allow us to offer more options to our passengers and increase access not only for those traveling from Tel Aviv, but also for passengers originating in London and other global gateways. 

 

“This move is a direct implementation of our strategic plan, which emphasises strengthening our core routes to and from Europe, the east and North America.”

 

Oranit Beit Halahmy, senior director for Europe, added: “This is an important step for us and a reflection of our ongoing commitment to the UK market. We truly value the continued support from our customers and partners in the region. 

 

“By expanding our Heathrow operations, we aim to offer greater flexibility and convenience for our passengers, and to better meet the growing demand for travel between the UK and Israel.”

 

Israel began a military offensive in Gaza after Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage.