Israel Launches Major Expansion of Ben Gurion Airport Terminal 3 to Handle 40 Million Passengers Annually

The Israel Airports Authority has announced a flagship tender for a massive expansion of Terminal 3 at Ben Gurion Airport, aiming to increase the airport's capacity to approximately 40 million passengers per year. This development responds to the steady rise in passenger traffic and the return of international airlines to Israel, addressing expected growth over the coming decades while improving service and reducing wait times.

The project involves constructing a new four-story wing on the eastern side of Terminal 3, covering about 63,000 square meters. The first phase includes expanding the terminal building (GT1) by roughly 41,000 square meters, featuring spacious passenger halls, expanded retail and duty-free areas, restaurants, offices, training rooms, storage, technical rooms, and protected spaces. This new section will connect to the multi-level bridge via two new bridges over the railway line and will incorporate glass facades and stone cladding. Additionally, around 86 new check-in counters will be added to the existing 120.

The second phase entails building a 22,000-square-meter advanced logistics structure (DP3) for security screening and baggage sorting. Constructed with architecturally finished concrete, it will house state-of-the-art security screening systems, a new baggage management and sorting system, operational halls, a gallery floor, offices, storage, restrooms, locker rooms, technical rooms, and protected areas.

Transport Minister Miri Regev emphasized the strategic importance of the expansion, stating, "The open skies policy, alongside the return of airlines and expected growth in flight demand, obliges us to continue investing in Israel's aviation infrastructure. Expanding Terminal 3 is a strategic investment that will ensure advanced, safe, and efficient service for the public in the coming years." The tender was published on July 1, 2026, marking the official start of this significant upgrade to Israel's main international airport.