Government Approves: Yiftah Ron-Tal to Serve as Chairman of the Airports Authority

The Israeli Government approved today (Sunday) the appointment of Major General (Res.) Yiftah Ron-Tal to the position of Chairman of the Council of the Israel Airports Authority (IAA). The appointment is for a four-year term.

Maj. Gen. (Res.) Yiftah Ron-Tal brings with him years of extensive experience in public service, the management of large-scale organizations, and key roles within both the defense and civilian sectors. Among his previous positions, he served as Chairman of the Board of the Israel Electric Corporation (IEC), Chairman of the Board of the Israel Ports Company (IPC), and Chairman of the Board of Model - A Security Company. Additionally, he held senior command positions in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), including Commander of the Ground Forces.

The search committee noted that Ron-Tal is a candidate with highly suitable qualifications, possessing broad managerial and professional experience in the fields of infrastructure and safety. The committee emphasized his suitability for the challenges currently facing the Israel Airports Authority, including the management of a complex aviation array, maintaining high safety standards, and advancing the development of civil aviation in Israel.

Ofer Vaknin Appointed Director of the Aviation Safety Investigation Authority

During the cabinet meeting, the government also approved the appointment of Ofer Vaknin as the Director of the Aviation Safety Investigation Authority within the Ministry of Transport and Road Safety. The Authority is responsible for investigating accidents and safety incidents in civil aviation, in accordance with international standards, with the objective of deriving systemic lessons, improving safety levels, and preventing the recurrence of such events.

Vaknin possesses extensive professional experience in the fields of aviation and air safety, with a deep familiarity with civil aviation safety systems, aviation regulation, and safety investigation management. In his previous roles, he engaged in the management, supervision, and investigation of aviation safety incidents. He brings practical knowledge and cumulative experience in working vis-à-vis aviation stakeholders, regulators, and international bodies.

Minister of Transport Miri Regev stated: "I welcome the approval of the appointment of Maj. Gen. (Res.) Yiftah Ron-Tal as Chairman of the Israel Airports Authority Council and the appointment of the Director of the Aviation Safety Investigation Authority. These are professional and responsible appointments that will strengthen the civil aviation array, safety protocols, and the management of national bodies for the benefit of the citizens of Israel."