Israel Demands US Air Force Refuelers Leave Ben Gurion Airport by 2026

Israel's Airports Authority has issued a stark ultimatum to the Ministry of Defense, demanding the complete removal of 19 U.S. Air Force refueling aircraft from Ben Gurion Airport by 2026. Sharon Kedmi, the Authority's CEO, stated in a letter that the ongoing operational presence of U.S. military aircraft at the civilian airport is unsustainable, especially with the anticipated return to peak passenger traffic levels by 2027. The Authority warns that failure to vacate the premises by the deadline could force significant adjustments to flight schedules, including the reduction and cancellation of commercial flights, potentially leading to immediate cancellations for Israeli travelers.

The issue extends to Ramon Airport in southern Israel, where, starting November 1, 2026, nighttime operations for refueling aircraft will cease, limiting its activity to daytime hours only. The Airports Authority is also seeking a financial agreement from the state to cover the security and operational costs associated with the U.S. military's presence, which have thus far been borne solely by the Authority.

This demand follows months of severe delays and disruptions to civilian air traffic at Ben Gurion Airport, attributed to the limited parking and taxiing space occupied by the U.S. aircraft. These constraints have caused extensive delays, with some flights postponed by up to 12 hours. The Airports Authority is determined to prevent a recurrence of this operational chaos and ensure a return to normal civilian aviation operations in the coming years.