Israel Airports Authority: 32,000 Israelis Return via Ben Gurion Airport

The "Operation Lion's Wings" to return Israelis home marks a significant milestone: according to Israel Airports Authority (IAA) data, approximately 60% of all Israelis who were abroad on the eve of the conflict have already landed in Israel. Between March 5–9, 177 flights landed at Ben Gurion Airport carrying about 32,000 passengers.

Today (Wednesday), about 40 additional flights are expected to land at Ben Gurion Airport with approximately 7,000 passengers. Simultaneously with the incoming traffic, about 10,000 passengers departed the country via Israeli airlines, which are operating routes under the limitations of the special framework.

On the land front, "Operation Lion's Roar" led to a sharp increase in passenger traffic at the Begin (Taba), Rabin (Arava), Jordan River, and Allenby border crossings. Through these crossings, about 25,000 passengers entered Israel, while about 31,000 passengers exited through them. The IAA emphasizes that crossing teams are working around the clock to enable safe and efficient passage on these routes, which serve as a critical alternative to limited flights.

In a sign of a gradual return to aviation routine, the IAA announced the reopening of catering services in Terminal 3. Starting today, three cafes will open in the Duty-Free hall and Concourse C, alongside the Richardson stand at the end of Concourse C. All businesses will operate on a full 24/7 format for the benefit of passengers staying at the airport.