Ben Gurion Airport Reports Strong Passenger Recovery and Growing Flight Activity in June 2026

Ben Gurion Airport has shown a significant recovery in passenger traffic and flight operations following a turbulent period in the aviation sector. The Israel Airports Authority released data for June 2026 revealing that approximately 1.69 million passengers passed through the airport, more than double the 830,000 recorded in June 2025. This upward trend is expected to continue, with projections estimating around 2.3 million passengers in July.

The report highlights a gradual return to normalcy as foreign airlines resume and expand their routes to and from Israel. Israeli carriers also increased their activity, with El Al leading the market by transporting over 737,000 passengers in June, accounting for 43% of total traffic. Israir followed with over 229,000 passengers (13%), Arkia with more than 208,000 (12%), and low-cost carrier Wizz Air with about 87,000 (5%). Wizz Air's figures were affected by a temporary suspension of operations in Israel from late February to early June.

Looking at the first half of 2026, El Al maintained its lead with approximately 2.7 million passengers (44%), followed by Israir (640,000, 10%), Arkia (605,000, 9%), and Wizz Air (405,000, 6%). Popular flight destinations in June included Greece, the United States, Cyprus, and Italy. From January through June, the top countries flown to by Israelis were Greece, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Italy, and Cyprus. City-specific preferences in June were Athens, Larnaca, New York, and Dubai, with the same cities leading the list for the first half of the year.

Despite the encouraging recovery, the Israeli aviation market remains in a rebuilding phase. The full return of additional foreign airlines and increased flight offerings are expected to influence ticket prices, competition, and availability in the coming months.