Checking in for an EL AL flight is easy and can be done in several ways depending on your travel preferences. The most popular option is online check-in, which opens 24 hours before your flight's departure and closes three hours before the flight. To check in online, go to the EL AL website or use their mobile app. Enter your booking reference or ticket number and your last name. You will then see your flight details and can confirm your seat, enter passport information for international travel, and get your boarding pass. The boarding pass can be downloaded to your phone or printed out at home. If you are traveling with carry-on bags only, this process allows you to go directly to airport security without stopping at the check-in counter.
If you have checked baggage, you can still check in online, but you must drop your bags at the baggage drop counter at the airport. Make sure to do this before the check-in deadline. For international flights, EL AL recommends arriving at the airport at least three hours before departure to allow enough time for bag drop, security checks, and immigration. For domestic or regional flights, arriving two hours early is usually enough.
Another way to check in for your EL AL flight is at the airport check-in counter. These counters usually open three hours before the flight and close about one hour before departure. If you prefer checking in with the help of staff or need assistance with baggage, visas, or other services, this option is best. Airport check-in is also recommended if you are traveling with children, have special needs, or are flying on a complex itinerary. The staff can help make sure everything is in order and provide you with a paper boarding pass.
EL AL also offers self-service kiosks at some major airports, including Tel Aviv. These kiosks allow you to check in quickly by entering your booking details. You can choose your seat, print your boarding pass, and print your baggage tags. After tagging your bags, you can drop them off at the bag-drop counter. This is a great option for travelers who want to save time but still need to check in at the airport.
If you are flying on a codeshare flight operated by another airline, you must check in with the operating carrier. Also, online check-in may not be available for passengers with special service requests, such as wheelchair assistance or unaccompanied minors. In these cases, airport check-in is required.
To sum up, you can check in for an EL AL flight online 24 hours before departure, use a self-service kiosk at the airport, or go to the airport counter for personal assistance. The method you choose depends on your travel needs, whether you have bags to check, and how much time you want to spend at the airport. Checking in early helps ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience with EL AL.