Israel Braces for Record 3 Million Travelers During High Holidays

Israel's Airports Authority (RAA) has completed extensive preparations for an anticipated record number of travelers passing through its facilities during the upcoming High Holidays in September. Over 3 million passengers are expected to travel, with a significant increase in staffing and management presence at Ben Gurion Airport and border crossings.

Ben Gurion Airport is projected to handle approximately 2.5 million passengers, while Ramon Airport expects around 81,000 and Haifa Airport about 60,000. An additional half a million travelers are anticipated at land border crossings to Jordan and Sinai. This surge follows a busy August, which saw nearly 2.65 million passengers at Ben Gurion Airport alone.

Peak travel days are scheduled for September 10, 17, 22, and 25, with daily passenger numbers potentially exceeding 100,000, accompanied by approximately 600 flights. Special flights to Uman, Ukraine, will operate from September 6 to September 17. Popular destinations during this period include Greece, Cyprus, the United States, Italy, and the UAE.

At the land borders, the Rabin crossing to the Arava is expected to see about 190,000 travelers, followed by the Allenby crossing with 153,000, the Begin crossing with 100,000, and the Jordan River crossing with 55,000.

The RAA has issued recommendations for travelers, advising them to check their departure terminal, perform online check-in, and print baggage tags at self-service stations. Those with only carry-on luggage who have checked in online are encouraged to use the fast-track lane. The authority also reminded reservists and security personnel to ensure no ammunition is left in their bags.

The RAA stated its commitment to ensuring a safe, efficient, and pleasant travel experience for all passengers, highlighting the comprehensive preparations and reinforcements across all its facilities.