El Al - shabbos and changing ticket

[hillelavraham]

I have two tickets for an El Al flight in October - in four months. It is scheduled to arrive 3 hours before Shabbat. The flight is not always on time per flight tracking history, and with airport time, 40 minutes ground transportation, and any other unforseen delays, it feels much too close for Shabbos. Staying over in Tel Aviv is not an option. El Al and the travel agent require $1000 total to change the ticket one of many flights available through another route, on top of the already high price. Their prices seem out of control.

Any tips on how to change the El Al ticket for a reasonable price?

[Dan]

Why did you book it?

[S209]

Why did you book it?

That’s a good question, but what would you suggest he do now?

[JuryDuty]

Is it the risk of spending Shabbos in Athens worth $1000? That's a personal preference, but I'd take the risk. As a backup, find somewhere near the airport to stay, and also take emergency shabbos provisions in your carry-on.