Full Breakdown
Ben Gurion Airport Prepares for Flight Operations Resumption Following Iran Ceasefire
4/8/2026, 7:50:17 PM
Gradual Expansion of Flight Operations
Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv is set to ramp up its operations following a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran. Israeli authorities anticipate a gradual increase in passenger traffic as restrictions ease. Preparations began on Wednesday, with airport officials collaborating with security agencies and the Transportation Ministry to ensure a phased return to normal operations. This includes reactivating infrastructure, cleaning operational zones, and reopening key facilities to support the safe expansion of flights.
The Transportation Ministry has proposed new measures that could allow medium-haul aircraft to carry up to 120 passengers and long-haul flights to accommodate 150 passengers per rotation. These changes are expected to take effect as early as next week. Currently, Israeli airlines are the only carriers operating from Ben Gurion Airport, with Arkia and Israir preparing to expand their flight schedules. Arkia plans to resume flights to various destinations, including Athens, Larnaca, and New York, while Israir is also gearing up to increase its operations.
Security Considerations Impacting Operations
Despite the optimistic outlook, aviation officials have cautioned that a full return to standard operations may take time. The ongoing presence of U.S. Air Force personnel and aircraft at the airport, along with the need to assess the stability of the ceasefire, is expected to slow the pace of resuming full activity. The Airports Authority is conducting ongoing assessments and reviewing a phased expansion plan in coordination with security agencies.
Transportation Minister Miri Regev emphasized the importance of safety and security, stating, “As soon as we can, we will return and we will do so immediately.” She noted that communication with foreign airlines is ongoing, and the timeline for their return will depend on the evolving security situation.
Criticism and Concerns from Airlines
While Israeli airlines are preparing to expand operations, foreign carriers remain cautious. Airlines such as Flydubai, Etihad Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines have expressed interest in resuming flights but are awaiting regulatory approval from Israeli authorities. Hungarian low-cost airline Wizz Air has extended its suspension of flights to and from Israel through April 27, citing a commitment to monitor developments closely.
Industry officials have warned that normalization of flight operations could take time as foreign airlines reassess risk levels and operational commitments to Israel. The Airports Authority has indicated that a full return to pre-crisis levels will depend on both security stability and the willingness of international carriers to resume flights.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The safety and security of the passengers, the crew, and the aircraft remain at the top of the company’s priorities, which is in contact with all the relevant authorities and with the passengers who are affected by the situation.” — Sharon Kedmi, Director General, Israel Airports Authority
- “ Last week, Transportation Minister Miri Regev said that “as soon as we can, we will return and we will do so immediately.” — Miri Regev, Transportation Minister
As preparations continue, the situation remains fluid, and the future of flight operations at Ben Gurion Airport will largely depend on the ongoing assessment of security conditions and the response of international airlines.
