After five days of war, Ben Gurion Airport in Israel reopened to limited civilian flights on Thursday, initiating the return of tens of thousands of Israelis stranded abroad. The government announced that outbound flights would begin gradually on Sunday.
Repatriation Flights Underway
The first flight, operated by El Al, landed at 6:05 a.m. From Athens, marking the airport’s reopening as the country’s main international gateway. A flight by Israir followed shortly after, landing from Rome, with additional flights by Arkia and Haifa Air expected later in the day. These flights aim to bring home an estimated 100,000 Israelis who have been unable to return since airspace was closed on Saturday following joint air assaults with the US on Iran, and subsequent ballistic missile fire from Iran.
Transportation Minister Miri Regev spoke with the pilot of the El Al flight, stating, “We wish you a safe landing and with God’s help, we will bring all the Israelis home.” The pilot, preparing for landing, told passengers, “Here’s a significant and moving moment for all of us, after five days during which the country’s skies were closed to commercial flights. We are proud to bring you back to Israel.”
Landings were briefly halted Thursday morning due to an Iranian missile attack targeting central Israel, with one missile striking an open area without causing injuries.
Future Flight Plans
Authorities aim to accommodate 17 flights on Thursday, with that number potentially doubling on Friday, which will include flights from North America. Under the current framework, two narrow-body jets or one wide-body jet are permitted to land each hour, contingent on security assessments. El Al plans to operate flights to 22 destinations in the coming days, including cities in the US and Thailand.
Passengers arriving at Ben Gurion Airport are advised to leave the terminal area quickly after collecting their luggage, with bus and Israel Railways transportation available to facilitate swift departures amid continued concerns about potential attacks. El Al and Israir have temporarily halted ticket sales to prioritize those affected by the flight cancellations.
Outbound flights are scheduled to begin on Sunday at a rate of one per hour, with a maximum of 50 passengers per flight and restrictions on checked luggage. Passengers will be required to arrive at the airport an hour and a half before departure, and only passengers will be permitted to enter the terminal building.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Ben Gurion Airport reopen to civilian flights?
Ben Gurion Airport reopened to limited civilian flights on Thursday, March 5, 2026.
How many Israelis are estimated to be stranded abroad?
Approximately 100,000 Israelis have been unable to return home since airspace was closed on Saturday.
When will outbound flights begin?
Outbound flights are scheduled to begin gradually on Sunday, subject to security developments.
As the situation remains fluid, what impact will ongoing security concerns have on the pace of repatriation and the resumption of normal flight operations?
