El Al Israel Airlines has reported a 2010 net profit of $57.1 million, from a $76.3 million net loss in 2009, on the back of a 19% increase in revenue to $1.97 billion. Fourth-quarter net income was $16.3 million, from a $29 million net loss in the 2009 December quarter, on a (what we now know is an annual average) 19% lift in revenue to $492 million. Expenses increased 10% to $1.58 billion. Operating profit for 2010 was $387.7 million, up 83% from a $211.6 million operating income in 2009.
El Al purchased a 747-400 during 2010. During the same period it added a 767-300, a 737-800 and a 747-400F all of which were leased. In February it completed a contract with Boeing to order four 737-900ERs for delivery between 2013 and 2015. The airline retains options for two 737-900.