Israel Airports Authority is preparing for September and the Tishrei holidays with over 3 million passengers across all its facilities, including approximately 2.5 million at Ben Gurion Airport. On four days, the airport is expected to handle about 100,000 passengers daily on approximately 600 flights – and the IAA has issued several recommendations for those planning to fly during the holidays. The Tishrei holidays are approaching, and if you plan to travel abroad soon, it’s advisable to mark a few dates in your calendar. The Israel Airports Authority has released its forecast for September and the holiday period, indicating a particularly busy month: over 3 million passengers are expected to pass through the IAA’s facilities during this time. Of these, approximately 2.5 million passengers are expected to pass through Ben Gurion Airport alone. These figures follow an especially busy August, during which approximately 2.65 million passengers passed through Ben Gurion Airport – and the IAA states that the data reflects a significant upward trend in passenger traffic.
These Are the Four Busiest Days at Ben Gurion Airport
Those planning to fly during the Tishrei holidays should pay special attention to four dates. According to the IAA’s forecast, the peak days are expected to be September 10, 17, 22, and 25. On each of these days, around 100,000 passengers are expected to pass through Ben Gurion Airport, with approximately 600 flights daily. One of the peaks is anticipated on September 10, ahead of Rosh Hashanah, when the authority estimates that more than 100,000 passengers will pass through Ben Gurion Airport on international flights. Therefore, those flying on these dates should consider possible congestion in check-in areas, security checks, border control, and the roads leading to the airport.
Flights to Uman Also Set to Begin
A significant portion of September’s activity is also related to trips to Uman ahead of Rosh Hashanah. The dedicated flights will begin on Sunday, September 6, and will continue until Thursday, September 17. This period is expected to see thousands more passengers passing through Ben Gurion Airport on their way to Ukraine via neighboring countries, coinciding with some of the month’s main peak days.
Where Are Israelis Flying During the Holidays?
The list of popular destinations does not include major surprises. According to IAA data, the countries expected to lead passenger traffic during the Tishrei holidays are Greece, Cyprus, the United States, Italy, and the United Arab Emirates. Greece and Cyprus continue to be among the top choices for Israelis for holiday vacations, alongside more distant destinations like the United States.
Not Just Ben Gurion: Half a Million Will Cross Land Borders
The holiday congestion will not be limited to the airport. At Ramon Airport, approximately 81,000 passengers are expected during this period, and at Haifa Airport, about 60,000 passengers. Simultaneously, around 500,000 passengers are expected to cross the land borders to Jordan and Sinai. The busiest crossing is expected to be the Rabin Crossing in the Arava, with about 190,000 passengers. At the Allenby Crossing, approximately 153,000 are expected, at the Begin Crossing about 100,000, and at the Jordan River Crossing around 55,000 passengers.
Ben Gurion Airport Boosts Staff Ahead of Congestion
The Israel Airports Authority states that as part of the preparations, the workforce at Ben Gurion Airport and the border crossings has been increased. During the holidays, there will also be an increased presence of managers in the terminals to handle the high volume of activity and minimize congestion and delays as much as possible.
Flying During the Holidays? Here Are Things to Do in Advance
The authority recommends that passengers check in advance from which terminal their flight departs and complete check-in from home whenever possible. Additionally, baggage tags can be printed at self-service stations. Passengers who have already checked in and are traveling with hand luggage only can use the fast track in Sector W at Terminals 1 and 3. The IAA also makes a special request to reservists and security personnel: thoroughly check your bags before heading to the airport to ensure no ammunition parts remain, which could cause delays during security checks.
Flying on September 10, 17, 22, or 25? Prepare Accordingly
The bottom line is simple: September and the Tishrei holidays are expected to be very busy at Ben Gurion Airport, but the four dates to remember are September 10, 17, 22, and 25. If your flight falls on one of these dates, it is especially advisable to complete any actions possible from home, check the terminal and updated flight time – and arrive at the airport with enough time and patience. To find the most affordable flight click here Flight Hunter To join the Flight Hunter WhatsApp group click here
