The Israel Airports Authority Steps Up Enforcement Against Unlicensed Taxi Drivers at Ben Gurion – Statement from the Airports Authority Spokesperson:
The Israel Airports Authority (IAA) is tightening measures against unlicensed taxi drivers operating illegally at Ben Gurion Airport. In 2024, more than 30 administrative and judicial removal orders were issued against rogue drivers, banning them from entering Ben Gurion. In addition, more than 2,500 fines totaling about NIS 1.2 million were issued to drivers who operated illegally at the airport.
Enforcement Measures Against Rogue Drivers
Alongside the removal orders, the Ben Gurion Airport director is now reviewing 6 more requests to remove drivers who break the law. The IAA stresses that this phenomenon harms both the traveling public and the image of the State of Israel, and the enforcement policy is carried out in cooperation with all relevant bodies.
In addition, Gett was recently selected as the official concessionaire for operating taxi services at Ben Gurion. Every driver who wishes to operate under this service must register in advance, comply with regulations and provide services according to the fares set by law. This system allows passengers and the company to take action against drivers who break the rules.
The Phenomenon of Unlicensed Drivers
Despite the official arrangement, there are still taxi drivers operating illegally who are not registered with Gett and are not authorized to carry passengers from the airport. These drivers act against the law, solicit unsuspecting tourists and passengers to use their services, sometimes charge them exorbitant prices and operate without any supervision. Some even disrupt public order, park in prohibited areas and use verbal and even physical violence against IAA inspectors.
The Court’s Decision
In a ruling recently issued by Judge Raz Navon of the Tel Aviv Magistrate’s Court (case 2167-04-24), the court ruled that licensed taxi drivers must be protected from the illegal activity of rogue drivers. The judge stressed that the behavior of these drivers, including standing in prohibited places and aggressively soliciting passengers, could lead to chaos and direct harm to the traveling public. Accordingly, it was ruled that the driver against whom proceedings were brought is banned from entering Ben Gurion unless he holds a valid flight ticket for that day.
A Call to the Traveling Public
The Israel Airports Authority calls on passengers to use only the licensed taxi services operating at Ben Gurion, in accordance with the signs posted throughout the terminals. Using regulated taxis ensures safe, fair service in line with the law.
