Former Israel Airports Authority Chief Criticizes Severe Management Failures Amid Ben Gurion Airport Strike Chaos

Eliezer Cheney Marom, a retired general and former chairman of the Israel Airports Authority about a decade ago, sharply criticized the management of Ben Gurion Airport during a recent strike that caused significant chaos. Speaking on 103FM radio on August 23, 2026, Cheney highlighted a "serious managerial failure" related to severe understaffing and poor preparation for the busy summer season. He recounted his own experience returning from abroad, waiting over two hours for luggage due to a severe shortage of workers handling baggage, describing the situation as unacceptable.

Cheney acknowledged the strike was "wild and unjustified," though he expressed respect for Pinhas Idan, the current chairman of the airport workers' union, with whom he had a good working relationship. He condemned the decision to halt work on the busiest day of the year, which affected tens of thousands of travelers. Regarding Idan's long tenure as union chairman, Cheney noted that repeated elections kept him in office but suggested considering term limits similar to those for the prime minister.

Addressing nepotism allegations at Ben Gurion, Cheney admitted that in the past, family members were often hired informally across various sectors, including the Israel Railways and ports. However, he stressed that reforms have been implemented, with the Civil Service Commissioner setting limits on hiring relatives, and that the Israel Airports Authority now complies with these rules. He emphasized that nepotism is a historical issue and no longer prevalent.

Cheney's comments come amid ongoing scrutiny of airport operations and labor relations, highlighting the need for improved management and staffing to prevent future disruptions during peak travel periods.