I'm looking to visit Israel early 2024. From research it seems as though flying into TLV Ben Gurion international airport is my best bet. My origin is PHX Phoenix Sky Harbor airport.

I've looked around and it seems like EL AL has some great fares for Premium Economy. This would use Jetblue into JFK and then over on EL AL Dreamliner. The way back would go from TLV to LAX (15 hours!)

I do have some questions about the experience as I do not fly internationally very often. These questions are specific to EL AL or atleast about the logistics of TLV.

• As an American what can I expect that is different using EL AL flying from USA to Israel that I wouldn't experience with a USA based airline? In otherwords will I experience much discomfort with the overall EL AL experience? (Crew, other passengers, etc). There may be some cultural or religious differences and I'm not sure how they get played out with EL AL.
• Do I get through the customs faster flying into TLV via EL AL rather than another airline (like Delta, American Airlines, etc)? I heard EL AL or Israel officials will interview all passengers in the USA (JFK) before boarding the flight.
• What can I expect that is different using EL AL from USA compared to that of USA based airlines into Israel (again, Delta, American Airlines, etc)?
• Is Kosher meat and overall meal editable for an American who has never had a Kosher meal?
• Is the entertainment system filtered or primarily Israel based shows/movies? Can I expect all of the normal airline movies and shows in English?
• I'm planning on Premium economy. I'll be flying with my spouse. Is there preferred row such as the first row of Premium Economy (bulkhead) or does that one not have a foot-rest?
• For the Dreamliner Premium economy is it difficult to sleep? I realize some people can sleep standing up but what I mean is overall is the pitch/recline and comfort of the padding of seats conducive to sleeping?
• I read that there is a $270 cancellation fee per passenger for USA to TLV RT flights with EL AL. Is the remaining balance refunded back to original form of payment or is it in airline credit voucher? If voucher, how long is it good for?

I really appreciate any insight into this. I do apologize as again I'm not use to flying international and I've never flown another country's airline on a transatlantic voyage.

Thank you all!