Thanks for the reply. I thought posting in here was a good idea, since it was suggested that I post my question on the carrier boards instead of the general board for the region; especially since this was more geared towards El Al themselves.

I'll take a look into BA. From looking before, the route availability (the trip is in 2-3 weeks) wasn't so great. I can get to LHR direct for about $1500 per person on AA, in Coach and hope to upgrade. I can then take BA and partners (non-direct) to TLV from LHR at a cost of about 38000 Avios and $520 a person, for coach and business. That brings the total up to about $2000 per person, plus 76000 Avios for mixed classes, with only a LHR to Germany confirmed in coach.

Thanks again! I'll keep trying alternatives.