Operation “Safe Return” Expands: Outbound Flights to Begin Operating from Ben Gurion Airport Starting Tomorrow
Airport Authority Spokesperson | June 22, 2025
The Airport Authority announces that starting tomorrow, Monday, June 23, 2025, Operation “Safe Return” will be expanded to include the operation of outbound flights from Ben Gurion Airport, in addition to the incoming flights already operating under the initiative.
As part of the expansion, approximately 24 incoming flights are expected to operate daily, bringing passengers from various destinations worldwide. Additionally, following coordination between the Minister of Transport and Road Safety Brigadier General (Res.) Miri Regev, the Airport Authority (IAA), the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI), and security agencies, outbound flights from Israel will also be permitted under a strict operational framework.
Outbound Flight Framework:
According to the guidelines, each outbound flight will be limited to a maximum of 50 passengers, aiming to reduce the number of people in the terminal and minimize the time spent there.
Guidelines for Departing Passengers:
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All departing flights will take off from Terminal 3 only.
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Entry will be allowed for passengers only (except for escorts of assisted passengers or children). Entry to the terminal will not be permitted for those not flying.
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Access to the terminal will be through Gate 02 only, on the lower level.
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Security checks and check-in will take place on level G. Passengers will then proceed to level 3 for hand luggage inspection, border control, and entry to the departure gates.
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It is recommended to arrive at the airport about two hours before departure – not earlier.
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Arrival by public transport is recommended.
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Arrival by private vehicle should follow a “kiss and fly” approach – quick drop-off without waiting.
Available Services for Departing Passengers:
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Cafes will operate in the departure hall and concourses.
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Duty-free shops will remain closed to prevent prolonged stays.
More from Miri Regev: There are foreign companies that want to participate in rescue flights, but currently, there is no need, as Israeli companies have not yet utilized their entire fleet for rescue flights due to security constraints. Once there is a need for additional aircraft, we will see foreign companies able to participate in the rescue.
Update for Returning Passengers:
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Incoming rescue flights will continue to operate and will even be expanded in terms of the number of flights and passengers.
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Passengers who made purchases in duty-free with the shopping storage service will be able to collect their products upon landing.
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It is not possible to collect items from duty-free if you did not land on a direct flight to Ben Gurion Airport. The companies will contact customers to coordinate product collection.
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Passengers who left a vehicle in Ben Gurion Airport parking lots before the start of Operation “With the Lion” will be able to collect it. Charges will apply only until June 13, 2025.
The Airports Authority calls on the public to adhere to the guidelines and be partners in ensuring the safety and health of all passengers.
Safe travel and return home safely!
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