Threat of flight reductions: details of the conflict at Ben-Gurion Airport

The Israel Airports Authority demands that the Ministry of Defense remove 19 American refueling aircraft from Ben-Gurion Airport by the end of 2026. The reason is an acute infrastructure shortage amid the recovery of passenger traffic. The authority warns that ignoring the deadline will lead to a reduction in commercial flights.

The Israel Airports Authority has sent an official demand to the Ministry of Defense, urgently requesting the removal of 19 American refueling aircraft from Ben-Gurion Airport by the end of 2026. The reason is an acute infrastructure shortage amid the rapid recovery of passenger traffic. Authority Director General Sharon Kedmi sent a stern letter to the military establishment, acknowledging the importance of the American presence for regional security but emphasizing its incompatibility with growing commercial traffic. Forecasts indicate that passenger traffic will reach record 2019 levels by 2027. The authority warns that ignoring the deadline will lead to the reduction or cancellation of some commercial flights. The problem has already manifested this summer: in August, over 2.6 million passengers passed through the terminals, and Transport Minister Miri Regev demanded that the airport be decongested, leading to multi-hour delays. Starting November 1, Ramon Airport will return to standard operations, ending night shifts for the US Air Force. The authority also demands a compensation agreement for security and maintenance costs at Ramon.