Ben Gurion Airport Warns One More Refueling Plane Will Force Flight Cancellations

Sharon Kadmi, CEO of Israel Airports Authority, warned on Tuesday that Ben Gurion Airport cannot accommodate any additional American refueling aircraft without starting to cancel flights. Speaking in an interview with Kan Reshet Bet, Kadmi emphasized that the airport is doing everything possible to avoid cancellations but stressed that if even one more refueling plane arrives, flight disruptions will be inevitable. He noted that American refueling planes are already present at Ben Gurion and other locations, and coordination is ongoing with the Israeli Air Force to manage the situation.

About a week ago, Israeli Transportation Minister Merav Regag lifted previous restrictions on American refueling planes landing at Ben Gurion Airport. However, she clarified that the number of such aircraft stationed at the airport would be limited to an agreed amount, with the remainder relocated to Israeli Defense Forces bases in coordination with the Ministry of Defense. The Transportation Ministry stated this move aims to maintain operational continuity while preserving civilian air traffic.

Last week, the U.S. government informed Israel of plans to increase the regional deployment of refueling aircraft, potentially sending dozens more to support possible strikes against Iran. Despite efforts to maintain normal operations at Ben Gurion, Israeli security officials have made clear that in the event of escalation with Iran, security needs will take precedence over all other considerations.