Israel will begin reopening Ben Gurion Airport early Thursday morning under a tightly managed framework designed to bring home thousands of Israelis stranded overseas during Operation Roaring Lion.

According to the current plan being finalized by the Transportation Ministry and security officials, rescue flights will begin operating before dawn between Wednesday night and Thursday morning, which is much earlier than initially anticipated. Ministers are scheduled to hold a press conference at 7:00 PM to present the full operational details and confirm the timeline and vote on it.

The reopening will take place gradually and under strict security oversight. The airport is expected to operate on a 24-hour schedule, but flight volume will initially be limited. On the first day, authorities intend to allow one aircraft per hour to land. If operations proceed smoothly and the security situation permits, the second day will see an increase to two flights per hour. Officials have indicated that periodic pauses may be implemented throughout the day to reassess conditions and maintain operational control.

Under the current structure, incoming aircraft will arrive full of passengers returning to Israel, while outbound planes will depart empty. This approach is intended to reduce aircraft ground time, minimize exposure, and prioritize the rapid return of Israeli citizens. Security officials reportedly pushed for stricter hourly limits, but transportation authorities are preparing for a measured expansion if the initial stage proves stable.

Arriving passengers will experience a quicker entry process to make sure everyone gets out as soon as possible. Travelers will proceed directly to baggage claim, and the duty-free will not operate during the initial phase in order to shorten processing times and prevent crowding.If this operation proceeds smoothly, the flight capacity may expand in the days that follow.