Israel Airports Authority Warns Additional US Tanker Landings at Ben Gurion Will Force Flight Cancellations

As tensions rise in the Middle East, the Israel Airports Authority (IAA) is preparing for potential operational challenges at Ben Gurion Airport. Sharon Kadmi, CEO of the IAA, told Globes that the airport is operating at the edge of its capacity, handling over 600 flights and around 90,000 passengers daily during the peak summer season. Kadmi emphasized that the arrival of any additional American refueling aircraft would compel the cancellation of civilian flights due to limited parking space and resources.

Kadmi explained that while the IAA is currently managing the existing American tankers without canceling flights, any further increase beyond the current number would overwhelm the airport's capacity. The IAA is coordinating closely with the Israeli Air Force, security agencies, and Transport Minister Merav Michaeli to avoid disruptions and maintain flight continuity, especially during the summer vacation period.

This warning follows last week's report that the US had frozen the withdrawal of its remaining tankers at Ben Gurion, with four additional tankers landing at the civilian airport. Kadmi sent a letter to Transport Ministry CEO Moshe Ben Zaken highlighting that by July 23, a shortage of aircraft parking spots would affect approximately 50,000 flight tickets monthly. The issue was partially resolved when the Israeli cabinet decided to reduce the number of US tankers at Ben Gurion to 20 by July 21, relocating about ten others to IDF bases designated by the Defense Ministry.

Kadmi concluded by noting that the IAA is experienced in managing crises and is committed to ensuring uninterrupted civilian air travel despite the ongoing regional tensions. The airport aims to provide a seamless travel experience even under these strained conditions.