Ben Gurion Airport to Operate Normally During Jewish High Holidays

Following a tense meeting, Israel's Airports Authority, the workers' union, and the Histadrut labor federation have reached an agreement to ensure the regular operation of Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) during the upcoming Jewish High Holidays. This accord aims to prevent disruptions like the sudden halt in activity that occurred at the airport two weeks prior, which was attributed to a staffing crisis.

During the discussions, management and union representatives exchanged accusations regarding the cause of the previous crisis, with management denying a staff shortage while the union insisted one existed. Despite these disagreements, the parties committed to cooperating through the High Holidays and continuing with a planned recruitment program.

"In anticipation of the High Holiday period and the expected congestion at Ben Gurion Airport, the Authority's management, employees, and the Histadrut will work jointly and responsibly to ensure the airport's functional and operational continuity and optimal service for passengers," a joint statement read. The Authority also pledged to expedite the hiring of necessary personnel according to its existing recruitment plan.

This agreement comes after Transportation Minister Miri Regev ordered the establishment of both an internal and an external investigation committee to examine the events that led to the previous operational standstill at the airport. The external committee will operate in parallel with the internal review by the Airports Authority Council.