אל על | אטמוספירה

Meet the Crew

They welcome you with a smile when you arrive at the airport, make sure you are comfortable, and fly you safely to your destination – time to get up close and personal with the EL AL Israel Airlines ground and air team. Meet Inflight Entertainment and Connectivity Product Manager, Ifat Mandelbaum

Name: Ifat Mandelbaumn | Marital Status : Married + 3 | Position: Inflight Entertainment and Connectivity Product Manager| Years at EL AL: 28 “The products I launch are revolutionizing the EL AL passenger experience”

How did you start working at EL AL? “During my master’s degree, I decided to fulfill an old love for the world of aviation and travel. I started as a flight attendant and then filled a variety of roles in the field of commerce and service. The combination of a personal passion for the global world and significant professional work led me to where I am today.” What does your position entail? “I’m responsible for defining our inflight entertainment and connectivity strategy, with a particular focus on the passenger experience. I monitor global trends and implement new solutions to ensure we’re always getting better and reaching new heights”. What do you most love about your job? “I love that it gives me the

opportunity to constantly explore new technologies and innovations. We recently introduced Starlink technology onto EL AL aircraft - a groundbreaking move that has transformed the EL AL inflight Internet experience. It brings me immense satisfaction to know that the products I launch are revolutionizing the EL AL passenger experience”. What part of your job do you find most challenging? “The everchanging and competitive nature of the aviation world; it means you’ve got to bring you’re A-game at all times – it’s very challenging, but it’s also a source of motivation”. What do you always have in your suitcase? “Comfortable walking shoes"

Photos: Ifat Mandelbaum

Which EL AL destination do you most enjoy flying to and why? “Thailand. It’s got it all: amazing people and breathtaking views". What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? “Sports activities that balance out the intensity of my work life and help me stay focused and energized”. What would you be doing now, had you not joined EL AL? “I’d probably be an interior designer - a job that also requires creativity and staying focused on the user experience”.

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Tips & Recommendations

Experience | the Mahanakhon Skywalk: an amazing open-air glass floor observation deck on the rooftop of a 78-story building in Bangkok.

Hotel | the Anantasila Beach Resort Hua Hin, Thailand - a boutique hotel in the town of the royal summer palace. It offers amazing service, and the owners have ties with Israel.

Restaurant | the Alchemist Kitchen Laboratory, Thessaloniki, Greece: a lovely restaurant in a small town without too many tourists; it has a magical atmosphere and excellent food.

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ATMOSPHERE JULY 2026