The Israel Airports Authority Publishes Its 2024 Summary and Third-Quarter Reports
The Israel Airports Authority is summing up 2024 while facing significant economic and operational challenges, following a drop in passenger traffic during the year. In this article we’ll review the main findings from the official reports published and examine the key effects on the Authority’s operations.
A Significant Drop in Passenger Numbers
During 2024, about 13.8 million passengers passed through Ben Gurion on international flights, a drop of about 34% compared with 2023. In addition, about 4.6 million passengers passed through the land border crossings to Jordan and Egypt. The drop in passenger traffic significantly affected the Authority’s revenue, which shrank by about 35% to about NIS 2.22 billion in the first three quarters of the year.
Economic Adjustments and Spending Cuts
The Authority took steps to adjust its spending in light of the drop in revenue:
- Spending cuts: during the first nine months of 2024, spending was reduced by about 16% to about NIS 2.3 billion.
- Future cuts: a further across-the-board 10% spending cut is planned for 2025.
- Support for concessionaires: rental rates for duty-free stores and other tenants remained fixed, without the expected index-linked increase.
Planning for the Future: Infrastructure Development and Upgrades
In line with Ministry of Transport guidelines, the Authority continues to prepare for a rise in passenger traffic once the fighting subsides. The development budget approved for 2025 stands at about NIS 7.2 billion and includes:
- Expanding infrastructure at Ben Gurion, including adding a fifth pier for aircraft stands.
- Upgrading the duty-free areas and adding space for passenger baggage screening.
- Expanding Terminal 3 and adding 22 check-in counters.
- Upgrading Ramon and Haifa airports.
Popular Destinations and Airline Performance
In 2024, many airlines continued to operate despite the challenges:
- Top destinations: Greece, the US, Cyprus, the UAE and France.
- Leading airlines: El Al, Israir, Arkia, flydubai and Blue Bird.
- Other airports’ performance: Ramon Airport served as an alternative to Ben Gurion, and Haifa Airport returned to international and domestic operations.
Coping with the Challenges of the War
Despite the complex security situation, the Israel Airports Authority managed to maintain continuous operations at Ben Gurion and at the land border crossings. Safety procedures were stepped up following a terror attack at the Jordan River crossing, in which three employees were murdered.
Looking Ahead
The Israel Airports Authority is now focusing on preparing for “the day after” and the return of operations to normal. Plans include upgrading the customer experience, investing in innovative technologies and expanding passenger services. The goal is to restore Israel to its central position as a regional transport hub.
The information is taken from the Israel Airports Authority report press release
