Passengers buying tickets at the fare can get a companion ticket free.

In a frenzy to retain market shares, the nation's airlines are offering free companion tickets, most until Feb. 28.

One ticket at this price, plus a companion ticket at half-price, $171.50, would total $514.50.

So far, international bookings for all airlines have remained discouraging, with carriers, including Delta, offering a free companion ticket to those who travel to Europe.

The companion tickets must be purchased directly from El Al.

Another minimum award, a companion ticket for someone traveling with a frequent flier who has paid a regular fare, will also rise to 25,000 from 20,000.

On Monday, Northwest Airlines eliminated the $25 charge for companion tickets.

Members who fly 16 segments, or 24,000 miles, get a round-trip ticket to Europe and may buy a companion ticket for $300.

And companion tickets are good only from so-called gateway cities.

There are rarely last-minute flights available and companion tickets can be had for $50 above the courier price.