A study by "Globes" has found that El Al Israel Airlines Ltd. (TASE: ELAL) prices to many destinations this summer are competitive compared with its rivals, even after a price hike to cover higher jet fuel costs, which came into effect on 20 March. Nevertheless specific price comparisons by destination are advisable.
"Globes" inquired among several airlines about prices to a range of destinations departing from Tel Aviv on July 25 and returning on August 5 - during the height of the summer vacation. Destinations were Amsterdam, Frankfurt, London, Paris, Rome, New York and Toronto. The study found that El Al fares to most destinations were cheaper than other carriers, by as much as $150 to Toronto. The study did not include low-cost carriers.
There were three exceptions: El Al ticket to New York cost $150 more than Delta Airlines, the cost of an El Al ticket to Paris was more than Air France; and the cost of an El Al ticket to Rome was almost the same as an Alitalia ticket.
Aviation Links Ltd. (TASE: AVIA) groups marketing manager Yael Vardi advises bargain-hunting travelers to seek travel dates that coincide with special events in Israel for foreign tourists. "At these dates, airlines arrange special flights to Israel, and want to fill the planes up for the return flights, so they offer bargains to Israelis flying out."
Vardi also advises seeking reservations for mid-week, as fares are cheaper than for weekend flights.
Eshet Tours marketing manager Galit Zakkai advises travelers to try to have flexible flight dates. "Check out the options, and don’t be tied to a specific date, because you'll be able to lower the cost of tickets. A person who is flexible on dates that do not coincide with work vacations can save quite a bit of money on fares."
It is advisable not to make reservations online without first comparing prices with a travel agent. Ophir Tours agent Inbal Tzahar says that agents sometimes have better prices more consistently because they regularly work with airlines or have various agreements. She adds, "The best prices can be had if reservations are made at least three weeks in advance."
Below are selected fares for various destinations:
- Amsterdam: El Al (fare for one suitcase) $724 - KLM-Air France - $965.
- Frankfurt: El Al (fare for one suitcase) - $543; Lufthansa - $605.
- London: El Al (fare for one suitcase) - $823; British Airways - $959.
- Paris: El Al (fare for one suitcase) $876; Air France-KLM - $726.
- Rome: El Al (fare for one suitcase) - $631; Alitalia - $628.
- New York: El Al (fare for one suitcase) - $1,733; Delta Airlines - $1,576; United Airlines - $1,831.
- Toronto: El Al (fare for one suitcase) - $1,689; Air Canada - $1,948
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on April 22, 2012
© Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd. 2012