Ben Gurion Airport Braces for Million Travelers During Sukkot Holiday

Israel's main airport, Ben Gurion, is preparing for a significant surge in passenger traffic during the Sukkot holiday period. Following Yom Kippur, approximately 1.13 million travelers are expected to pass through the airport by Sunday, October 4th. Daily passenger numbers are projected to exceed 90,000, with the current week being the busiest.

Popular international destinations for Israelis include Greece, Cyprus, Italy, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Germany, Georgia, and France. This increased activity is also reflected in other transportation hubs across the country. Ramon Airport anticipates around 35,000 passengers, and Haifa Airport expects about 22,000 during the holiday.

Land border crossings are also gearing up for a substantial influx, with an estimated 157,000 travelers. Specific crossings anticipate the following numbers: Taba crossing, 50,000; Arava crossing, 27,000; Allenby Bridge crossing, 50,000; and the Jordan River crossing, 30,000.

To manage the flow and prevent queues, authorities are advising citizens to pre-pay border crossing fees. Travelers are also encouraged to check their terminal numbers in advance, complete online check-in from home, and print baggage tags at self-service stations. A faster process for passengers with carry-on luggage is available in sectors W of terminals 1 and 3.

Reservists and security personnel have been specifically warned to thoroughly check their luggage for any accidentally packed ammunition or prohibited items, which could cause boarding delays.