El Al preps for Passover

El Al is preparing for Passover by adding 13 pre- and post-holiday flights from the United States to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV). These departures are in addition to its 26 regularly scheduled flights between the U.S. and Israel.

The carrier lays claim to being the only airline that adapts its schedule - and service - to cater specifically to travelers who want to spend the coming holidays in Israel. It is also the only airline that’s preparing to serve some 30,000 pieces of matzo to passengers on flights between the two countries.

Food preparation is taken very seriously at the Israeli flag carrier. In advance of Passover each year, El Al kitchens - and all the airline’s catering equipment - undergo a complete cleaning and rabbinical inspection. Every meal is prepared Kosher for Passover, in accordance with Jewish dietary laws, and under rabbinic supervision.

In keeping with Passover laws, no bread products are served on El Al aircraft, and the carrier uses only disposable glassware, dishes, and cutlery. The airline is even going so far as to remove beer and whisky from its flights for the holiday period. That’s because they’re fermented or distilled from grain. As for snacks, look for roasted almonds and dried fruit.

While the in-flight food may be somewhat more limited at this time of year, the in-flight fun isn’t. If you’re taking the family along for the trip, Passover flights will be a bit more entertaining. El Al’s in-flight ELALCHICK program conjures up clowns, magicians, prizes, and special children’s meals. ELALCHICK is featured on flights to Tel Aviv from both New York JFK and Newark (EWR) on April 4, 9, 10, 11, and 16.

© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler