Israel Expands Terminal 3 at Ben Gurion Airport to Boost Capacity and Services

The Israel Airports Authority has announced a major expansion project for Terminal 3 at Ben Gurion Airport to accommodate the ongoing rise in passenger traffic and the return of international airlines to Israel. The project involves constructing a new eastern wing covering approximately 63,000 square meters, significantly increasing the airport's capacity and service capabilities.

The expansion includes two main buildings: a new four-story terminal building (GT1) spanning about 41,000 square meters, which will feature spacious passenger halls, 86 new check-in counters in addition to the existing 120, retail and duty-free areas, restaurants, offices, training rooms, storage, technical rooms, and protected spaces. This building will connect to the existing multi-level bridge via two new bridges over the railway line and will incorporate advanced glass facades and stone cladding.

The second building is a 22,000-square-meter advanced logistics facility (DP3) dedicated to baggage screening and sorting. It will house an operational hall, gallery floor, offices, storage, restrooms, changing rooms, technical rooms, and protected areas, constructed with high-quality architectural concrete finishes.

This expansion is part of Ben Gurion Airport's comprehensive development plan, which also includes the construction of a fifth terminal wing. The goal is to meet the expected passenger growth over the coming decades, improve service quality, reduce waiting times, and ensure the airport remains Israel's primary international gateway.

Transportation and Road Safety Minister Miri Regev emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, citing the open skies policy and rising flight demand. Israel Airports Authority Chairman Yiftach Ron-Tal highlighted the commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, security, and service. CEO Sharon Kadmi noted that the expansion is part of a multi-year plan involving billions of shekels in upgrades, aiming to increase Ben Gurion's capacity to around 40 million passengers annually.