EL AL Israel Airlines will stop flying from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport by April 2026, consolidating all South Florida routes and cargo at Miami International Airport instead. This move, despite strong local demand, highlights operational challenges and strategic shifts for the carrier.
From Fort Lauderdale to Miami: What’s Behind EL AL’s Route Shift?
The news came as a bit of a blow to Fort Lauderdale travelers who’ve enjoyed the convenience of flying nonstop to Tel Aviv. Since launching service in April 2024, EL AL’s flights out of Fort Lauderdale have been popular, regularly flying at over 90% capacity. So why pull the plug less than two years later?
According to the airline and Broward County Aviation Department, the decision boils down to practical matters: runway length and aircraft capabilities. Fort Lauderdale’s longest runway just can’t handle EL AL’s fully loaded Boeing 787 Dreamliners when carrying both passengers and cargo, especially on longer-haul flights.
Basically, a fully loaded Dreamliner needs more runway to take off safely and efficiently. Miami International Airport (MIA) offers that with a longer runway, allowing EL AL to operate their largest planes without restrictions. This makes Miami a more suitable hub for both passenger and freight operations.
The airline will gradually wind down Fort Lauderdale service: cutting flights from two weekly to one starting October 26, then moving the remaining weekly flight to Miami by mid-April 2026.
Impact on Passengers and South Florida Aviation Landscape
Travelers in Broward and Palm Beach counties have responded enthusiastically to EL AL’s Fort Lauderdale route, but the switch to Miami isn’t all bad news. Miami International has long been South Florida’s primary international gateway with a well-established network and more extensive facilities.
Still, Fort Lauderdale’s aviation department expressed disappointment at losing EL AL. The route was seen as a big win for the airport, especially since flights were consistently full. For many local flyers, losing the direct connection means longer drives or extra transfers, which can be inconvenient.
Miami’s airport, on the other hand, offers a broader range of connections and better cargo handling, which could mean improved service reliability and more capacity in the long run. The shift also reflects a broader trend where airlines consolidate operations at larger hubs for efficiency.
Here’s a quick glance at how the two airports compare in this context:
| Airport | Runway Length (Longest) | Passenger Volume (2024) | Cargo Handling Capacity | EL AL Flight Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood (FLL) | 8,000 feet | 25 million | Limited for heavy cargo | Service ending April 2026 |
| Miami International (MIA) | 13,000+ feet | 46 million | Extensive, large cargo ops | Primary EL AL hub after 2026 |
That table sums it up nicely: Miami has the infrastructure EL AL needs, while Fort Lauderdale is more limited, especially for big, long-haul jets with cargo.
A Broader Look: Airlines and Airport Dynamics in South Florida
South Florida’s aviation scene is no stranger to shifts like this. Over the past decade, carriers have juggled routes between Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach airports to balance demand, cost, and airport capabilities. EL AL’s decision fits this pattern.
Miami’s status as a major international hub attracts more airlines and larger aircraft. Fort Lauderdale has become more focused on budget and leisure travelers, with some international routes but fewer heavy cargo flights. This strategic alignment helps airlines optimize their fleets and route profitability.
For EL AL, consolidating South Florida operations at Miami means streamlining logistics, cutting costs, and possibly increasing flight options through codeshare agreements and partnerships that Miami’s bigger hub can support.
The shift might feel like a bummer for folks who liked the Fort Lauderdale convenience. But in the big picture, it could mean better service and growth potential for the airline—and maybe even new routes down the line.
What This Means for Local Travelers and Businesses
For South Florida residents, especially those in Broward and Palm Beach counties, there will be some adjustment. The convenience of Fort Lauderdale’s closer proximity is tough to replace. Miami is farther south, and traffic can be a headache.
Businesses that rely on direct cargo shipments via EL AL will also need to adapt. Miami’s expanded cargo facilities might offer some benefits, but logistics routes and delivery timelines could shift.
Some travelers might consider alternative options:
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Driving to Miami for EL AL flights, especially if they’re bringing cargo or prefer the airline’s service.
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Flying from Fort Lauderdale to a connecting hub before heading to Israel.
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Exploring other carriers that offer direct flights to the region.
It’s worth noting that EL AL’s move aligns with a trend toward more centralized airline operations in major hubs, which often means fewer but more efficient flights.
This change won’t happen overnight. With the transition set through April 2026, travelers and businesses have some time to plan. Still, the news is a reminder of how airports and airlines constantly evolve based on operational needs and market realities.
