Ben-Gurion overwhelmed by delays - unexpected cause revealed

Israel's main airport is facing overload during the summer season: about 100,000 passengers and over 500 flights daily, with a significant portion of departures delayed. The cause is the placement of American military refueling aircraft at the airport, up to 30 planes at a time, occupying civilian aviation parking spots. After negotiations, it was decided to keep no more than 20 refuelers, with the rest moved to military bases. There are also issues with baggage delivery and confusion due to the operation of two terminals.

Israel's main airport, Ben-Gurion, is facing serious overload during the peak summer season. About 100,000 passengers and over 500 flights pass through it daily, but a significant portion of planes depart late, and schedules are repeatedly changed. One of the main reasons for the disruptions is the placement of American military refueling aircraft at the airport. On some days, more than 30 such planes were on the tarmac at once, occupying parking spots usually used by civilian aviation. The Israel Airports Authority admitted that the presence of military aircraft created additional strain and triggered a chain of delays. Civilian airliners had to wait longer for available parking, passenger boarding, unloading, and preparation for the next flight. The American refuelers were deployed to Israel amid the escalation around Iran. The situation led to a dispute between Israel's Ministry of Transport and the American command. Transport Minister Miri Regev demanded a reduction in the number of refuelers, warning of possible mass cancellations of civilian flights. After negotiations, it was decided to keep no more than 20 refuelers at the airport, with the rest placed at military bases. An additional problem is baggage delivery: many passengers report long waits for their luggage. The administration denies a serious staff shortage but continues to hire seasonal workers. The reopening of Terminal 1 was supposed to partially relieve the main terminal, but during the transition period, confusion arose. Passengers are advised to check in online, carry hand luggage, and arrive with extra time.