Arie Egozi/TEL AVIV
El Al is considering leasing Airbus aircraft from International Lease Finance (ILFC) to overcome any political hurdles the airline may face if it selects the A330/A340 to meet its long range requirements. The leasing option is being evaluated as the selection process comes to an end.
El Al needs up to 10 new aircraft, with the options a mix of A330/A340s or Boeing 767s and 777s (Flight International, 14-20 April). The carrier anticipates strong opposition if it decides to buy Airbus aircraft as Israel receives $3 billion annually in military and civil aid from the USA. An El Al source says leasing aircraft from US-based ILFC could dilute any potential opposition to a deal with the European consortium.
If the A330/A340 mix is selected, leasing the aircraft from ILFC would also ensure early deliveries to meet the Israeli airline's fleet restructuring plan.
Pressure is increasing for El Al to keep its exclusive ties with Boeing. Some joint US-Israeli commerce organisations have expressed their position officially, calling on El Al to maintain its Boeing fleet. El Al's selection is due this month.
Source: Flight International
