Illustrative: The Israeli flag carrier El Al’s airliner lands at Abu Dhabi International Airport, United Arab Emirates, Aug. 31, 2020. Photo: WAM/Handout via REUTERS

Israel’s national airline El Al has announced a new program that allows young travelers between the ages of two and 18 to earn exclusive benefits and points through flights that won’t expire until they turn 21.

El Al Young is a free program that gives youth travelers access to rewards as part of the Matmid Frequent Flyer Program, and parents or guardians can register as many youngsters as they have starting at the age of two. The young passengers can earn points by flying on El Al or Sundor and gain access to content on the curated Youth Mode in the El Al app, where they can watch videos, play games, and learn facts about aviation all while earning loyalty points every time they fly. Kids who are already members of the Matmid Frequent Flyer Program are automatically enrolled in El Al Young.

Young travelers using the app will earn points that can be redeemed for rewards such as seat upgrades and free checked baggage, booking award tickets to fly with friends, and buying snacks from onboard duty-free. El Al will launch new promotions on the app in the months ahead that will help travelers earn more points and save on fares. El Al points typically expire after 18 months but travelers in the youth program can keep their points until they are 21.

“El Al Young is a game-changer for family travel, while making every journey more fun and engaging,” said Nadav Hanin, vice president of marketing and digital at El Al Airlines. “With this program, El Al Airlines is inspiring the next generation of travelers by allowing them to earn their own points, explore Youth Mode on the El Al app, and enjoy more independence and excitement when traveling with El Al. Family travel has always been at the heart of our business, and with El Al Young, we’re strengthening that bond while creating unforgettable adventures for travelers of all ages.”

El Al operated its first scheduled flight in 1949 and now serves 49 international destinations in 33 countries. It operates more than 50 weekly non-stop flights between the US and Israel.