Ben Gurion Airport Expects Over 1 Million Travelers During Sukkot Holiday

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) anticipates a significant surge in passenger traffic during the upcoming Sukkot holiday, with over one million travelers expected to pass through the facility between September 22 and October 4. The Israel Airports Authority (IAA) has completed its preparations to manage the anticipated increase in passenger volume, which will also affect Haifa Airport, Ramon Airport, and land border crossings.

Approximately 1.13 million passengers are projected to travel through TLV for both inbound and outbound flights during this period. Popular destinations for Israelis include Greece, Cyprus, Italy, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Germany, Georgia, and France. The busiest travel days are expected to be September 24, with around 105,000 passengers and 614 flights, and October 1, with an additional 100,000 passengers. Daily passenger numbers throughout Sukkot are expected to exceed 90,000.

Other airports will also experience increased activity. Ramon Airport is expected to handle approximately 35,000 passengers, while Haifa Airport anticipates around 22,000. Land border crossings are projected to see about 157,000 travelers. The Bageen crossing near Taba expects around 50,000 passengers, Rabin crossing in the Arava about 27,000, Allenby crossing approximately 50,000, and the Jordan River crossing around 30,000.

The IAA advises travelers using land crossings to pre-pay the passenger fee to avoid delays. For international travelers, the authority recommends verifying departure terminals, completing online check-in from home, and printing baggage tags at self-service stations. Those traveling with carry-on luggage only and who have checked in online can use the fast lane at Terminals 1 and 3, sector W. Passengers are also urged to check for flight schedule changes with their airlines before heading to the airport.

Additionally, reservists and security personnel are reminded to thoroughly check their bags for ammunition or other prohibited items that could cause delays or prevent boarding. The IAA emphasizes that its operational and service systems are prepared for the holiday's expected activity levels and urges the public to prepare in advance, stay updated with official information, and follow the instructions of airport and border crossing staff.