April to See 1.8 Million Passengers at Ben Gurion Airport

The Israel Airports Authority (IAA) has released its activity forecast for Ben Gurion Airport for April and the Passover holiday - and traffic is expected to break records. According to the Authority, about 1.8 million passengers are expected to pass through Ben Gurion Airport during the month - a sharp increase of about 65% compared to Passover last year. March is also shaping up to be historic, with a 60% increase in passenger traffic, expected to stand at about 1.4 million.

Transport Minister Miri Regev stated that this is good news for the economy and the traveling public: "The Israeli aviation system is back on track with the opening of the skies to extensive passenger traffic. We are constantly working to strengthen Ben Gurion Airport, improve service for passengers, and increase the volume of foreign companies flying to Israel. The opening of Terminal 1, the return of dozens of airlines, and the expected records for Passover - are part of our efforts to ensure comfortable, safe, and accessible flights for the public."

In addition to the dramatic increase in the number of passengers, about 50 international airlines will operate at Ben Gurion Airport during April. After a period of inactivity, United Airlines returned to flying to Israel this morning, and Ryanair and Iberia will join later. Delta, British Airways, Air Baltic, Neos, and Bulgaria Air are also expected to return later this month and during April - which is expected to significantly increase the supply of flights to popular destinations.

As part of the efforts to improve the passenger experience, the Airports Authority will reactivate Terminal 1, which will again serve domestic and international flights after significant upgrades. The minister emphasized the importance of opening the terminal: "This is an important move that will reduce congestion from Terminal 3 and improve the passenger experience, especially during the Passover rush. We continue to invest in aviation infrastructure in Israel, as part of the strategic plan to strengthen Ben Gurion Airport."

The IAA reported that during April, about 1,400 international flights are expected to depart from Terminal 1 - constituting about 20% of all international activity at Ben Gurion Airport. With record-breaking demand, the most popular destinations for the holiday are Greece, the United States, Cyprus, Italy, and the United Arab Emirates. 

In order to ensure a smooth and efficient passage for passengers, the Airports Authority reported that it has completed the recruitment of dozens of security and operations workers, and is in the process of recruiting and training additional workers. Training courses have been opened for armed guards, security inspectors, sorting workers, in-flight services, equipment operators, and more.