Ben Gurion Airport Faces Peak Crowds in August Amid Delayed US Airline Returns

Ben Gurion Airport is preparing for a surge in passenger traffic throughout August, with the Israel Airports Authority forecasting particularly heavy crowds on Thursdays and select other days. According to the authority, over 2.6 million passengers are expected to pass through the airport on each Thursday until the end of the month, with an average of 100,000 travelers daily. The busiest day anticipated is Monday, August 17.

Travelers are strongly advised to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their flight and to use public transportation due to significant congestion in parking facilities. The recommendation to use public transit applies mainly on weekdays, as weekend services are limited. The airport stressed that arriving less than two hours before departure risks missing flights due to gate closures.

In recent developments, German airline Condor resumed flights to Israel after a 70-year hiatus, signaling a positive trend for the airport. However, major American carriers continue to delay their return. American Airlines will not resume flights to Israel until April 2027, effectively skipping the entire upcoming winter season. Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Air Canada have also suspended flights for several months and may only return in early September.

The Israel Airports Authority released these projections and travel tips on August 3, highlighting the peak summer travel season's challenges and urging patience from passengers amid the expected crowds.