Ben Gurion Airport Faces Over 100,000 Passengers Amid Persistent August Crowds

Ben Gurion Airport continues to experience heavy passenger traffic, with over 100,000 travelers expected to pass through the terminal today, marking one of the busiest days this August. The congestion has been ongoing throughout the month, with long queues, flight delays, and extended waits for baggage becoming routine for passengers. The morning hours already show significant crowding, and the trend is expected to persist through the last two weeks of August, with August 27 anticipated as another particularly busy day.

One of the popular destinations during this period is Greece, contributing to the high volume of travelers. The current level of congestion is unprecedented in recent years, especially following two years of reduced air traffic due to conflicts and many foreign airlines suspending operations in Israel. The Israel Airports Authority had adjusted staffing levels based on lower expected passenger numbers, but this year’s sharp increase caught many unprepared, leading to complaints about insufficient workforce and inadequate planning.

Additional factors exacerbating the situation include aircraft occupying parking spaces for refueling and criticism directed at some airlines, notably Bluebird, which has been responsible for significant delays, sometimes lasting hours, even after passengers boarded. The airline has been summoned for a hearing regarding these issues.

Passengers are advised to prepare for ongoing delays and long waits both before and after flights during this busy period. The airport and airlines face pressure to improve handling as the peak travel season continues.