Israel Rail Service Suspended at Ben Gurion and Modiin Stations for Track Connection Work

Israel Railways will suspend train service at Ben Gurion Airport and Modiin stations during two weekends in late August and early September 2026 due to construction connecting the new Route 431 to the national rail network. The first suspension will begin on Thursday, August 27 at around 10 p.m., continuing through Friday and Saturday, August 28-29. The second suspension will occur from Thursday, September 3 at 10 p.m. through Saturday, September 5. Train service will resume each Sunday at 4 a.m. during these periods.

During the shutdown, free shuttle buses will operate at the affected stations to accommodate travelers. The work is part of the final phase of the Route 431 project, which includes laying 30 kilometers of new double-track electrified rail, building new stations in Rishon Lezion and Ramla, constructing Israel's longest railway bridge (3.5 km), and tunneling under major roads. Route 431 will connect southern, central, and Shephelah communities with Modiin and Jerusalem, aiming to alleviate heavy traffic on Highway 1 and the Tel Aviv-Jerusalem high-speed rail line.

The full opening of Route 431 is expected in 2027, though some estimates suggest 2028. Additionally, from August 20 to 22, Israel Railways will implement significant service changes on other lines for safety upgrades, including partial closures and station shutdowns on routes between Modiin, Haifa, Beersheba, and other northern stations. Free shuttle buses and increased regular bus service will support affected passengers during these times.