Full Breakdown
Israel Resumes Outbound Flights Amid Ongoing Conflict with Iran
3/8/2026, 7:49:20 PM
Partial Reopening of Ben Gurion Airport
On March 8, 2026, Israel's Ben Gurion Airport partially resumed outbound flights for the first time since the escalation of conflict with Iran, which began on February 28, 2026. The airport had been closed to civilian flights following a joint US-Israeli military operation against Iran, leaving tens of thousands stranded. The resumption of flights is primarily operated by Israeli airlines El Al, Israir, and Arkia, with strict limitations on passenger numbers and flight frequency. Initially, flights were restricted to a maximum of 70 to 100 passengers per flight, depending on the airline and aircraft size.
Guidelines for Outbound Travel
Passengers wishing to leave Israel must sign a commitment stating they will not return for at least 30 days from their departure date. The Ministry of Transport has mandated that travelers complete early check-in online and arrive at the airport approximately two hours before their flight. To minimize time spent on the ground, security screenings will occur in a protected area, and boarding will only commence when the aircraft is ready for takeoff. These measures are designed to reduce the risk associated with ongoing missile and rocket attacks from Iran and Lebanon.
Current Flight Operations
As of the reopening, flights are being conducted to over 30 destinations across Europe, the United States, and Asia. The Transportation Ministry has indicated that the number of outbound flights is contingent upon the repatriation flights approved for returning Israelis. On the day of the reopening, 43 repatriation flights were expected to land at Ben Gurion Airport, bringing back some of the approximately 120,000 Israelis stranded abroad.
Humanitarian Considerations
Fifteen percent of the seats on outbound flights are reserved for humanitarian, security, diplomatic, or tourist cases. The Transportation Ministry is also coordinating with Emirati airlines to facilitate the return of around 4,000 Israelis stranded in the United Arab Emirates, where flight operations had been suspended due to the conflict.
Criticism and Opposition
While the resumption of flights has been welcomed by many, there are concerns regarding the safety of air travel amid ongoing hostilities. Critics argue that the government should prioritize the safety of citizens over the resumption of normal travel operations. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for changes in flight operations based on security assessments.
Official Statements
Transportation Minister Miri Regev stated, “After assessing the situation, we have made the decision to open the skies starting Sunday for outbound flights, subject to security developments.” This reflects the cautious approach taken by Israeli authorities in balancing the need for normalcy with the realities of ongoing conflict.
What's Next
The Israeli government plans to expand the scope of outbound flights and increase passenger capacity as security conditions allow. Ongoing assessments will determine the frequency and types of flights available in the coming days, with hopes of returning all stranded Israelis within a week to ten days.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The airport has partially resumed operations for departing flights,” — Ben Gurion Airport Press Service
- “We will update throughout the day.” — Miri Regev, Transportation Minister
- “The guidelines aim to avoid overcrowding and limit the time passengers stay on the ground at the airport, as missile and rocket attacks from Iran and Lebanon continue.” — Israeli Aviation Authorities
