El Al Ensures Passenger Safety with Advanced Anti-Missile Technology

As tensions in the Middle East escalate and the threat of an Iranian attack on Israel looms large, many international airlines have halted flights to the region. However, Israel's national airline, El Al, remains committed to its operations, undeterred by the growing risks of missile, rocket, and drone attacks from Iran and its proxies, including Hezbollah.

El Al's confidence in continuing flights safely lies in its cutting-edge missile defense technology, which equips every commercial aircraft in its fleet. El Al was the first airline in the world to implement such technology across its entire fleet, beginning in 2004 with a system called Flight Guard, originally developed by the Israeli Air Force.

While specific details about the technology are not publicly disclosed, El Al has shared that the system detects missiles fired within the aircraft's vicinity. When a threat is identified, the aircraft automatically releases flares to divert the incoming missiles away from their intended targets.

In response to safety concerns about Flight Guard potentially being a fire hazard, El Al upgraded to a more advanced system known as C-MUSIC in 2014. Developed by Elbit Systems, C-MUSIC is described as a Directed Infra-Red Counter Measure (DIRCM) system, offering powerful protection against Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS), which are surface-to-air missiles specifically designed to target aircraft.

Unlike its predecessor, C-MUSIC does not rely on flares. Instead, it utilizes a laser beam to disrupt the sensors of incoming missiles. The heat generated by the laser causes the missile to alter its trajectory, effectively safeguarding the aircraft. This innovative system is certified by the Civil Aviation Authority and has been installed on a wide range of commercial aircraft, as well as planes transporting heads of state and other VIPs.

One of the most remarkable features of the C-MUSIC system is its fully automated nature, with a response time of less than two seconds. This ensures that the system requires no intervention from the pilot, allowing for seamless and immediate defense against missile threats.

El Al's commitment to passenger safety through technological innovation exemplifies Israel's dedication to protecting its people and maintaining robust national security. As the only airline in the world to equip its entire fleet with such advanced anti-missile technology, El Al sets a high standard for aviation safety and security.

By continuing to operate amid regional threats, El Al not only demonstrates the effectiveness of its defense systems but also reinforces Israel's resilience in the face of adversity. The airline's ability to maintain operations during times of crisis highlights the strength and ingenuity of the Israeli spirit.

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