In a major boost for travelers ahead of the busy summer season, the Israel Airports Authority announced Wednesday that Terminal 1 at Ben Gurion Airport will soon reopen, a move expected to ease congestion and significantly improve passenger flow.

The decision comes as international airlines continue resuming service to Israel and passenger traffic steadily increases following months of reduced operations during Operation Roaring Lion.

According to the Airports Authority, the reopening will take place in stages. Domestic flights will resume operating from Terminal 1 on June 28, 2026, while international flights will return to the terminal beginning July 1, 2026.

Airport officials said the move is intended to accommodate the growing demand expected during the summer travel season and provide a more efficient and comfortable experience for travelers.

In recent months, Terminal 1 operated on a limited basis, with many flights redirected to Terminal 3 as the airport adjusted to wartime conditions and reduced aviation activity.

The reopening marks another step toward a full return to normal operations at Israel’s main international gateway.

During Operation Roaring Lion, outbound flights from Israel were operated exclusively by Israeli carriers, including El Al, Israir, Arkia, and Air Haifa, as many foreign airlines suspended service.

In recent weeks, however, international air traffic has rebounded significantly. Several foreign carriers have resumed flights to Israel, including U.S.-based Delta Air Lines and Latvia’s airBaltic, signaling renewed confidence in the Israeli market.

The Airports Authority is urging passengers to verify in advance which terminal their flight will depart from in order to avoid confusion and ensure timely arrival at the airport. Travelers are encouraged to check directly with their airlines and monitor official airport updates.

Airport officials noted that flight locations have changed frequently in recent months. For example, domestic flights to Eilat were temporarily transferred from Terminal 1 to Terminal 3 last October while upgrade work was carried out at the smaller terminal.

The reopening of Terminal 1 coincides with a series of major expansion and modernization projects underway at Ben Gurion Airport.

The Airports Authority is investing hundreds of millions of shekels in upgrades to Terminal 3, including the addition of approximately 7,000 square meters of new space, improvements to passport control and security screening areas, and an expansion of the airport’s duty-free shopping complex.

Officials say the projects are designed to prepare Ben Gurion Airport for continued growth in passenger traffic over the coming years while enhancing service quality and the overall travel experience.

{Matzav.com}