By 5 Towns Central Staff

LOD, Israel (July 1, 2026) — The Israel Airports Authority has launched a major tender for the expansion of Terminal 3 at Ben Gurion Airport, marking one of the largest aviation infrastructure projects in the country’s history.

The multi-billion-shekel initiative is designed to accommodate growing passenger demand and the continued return of international airlines, increasing the airport’s annual ground capacity to approximately 40 million travelers.

At the heart of the project is the construction of a new 63,000-square-meter eastern wing connected to Terminal 3. The expansion includes two major facilities that will significantly enhance passenger processing and airport operations.

The first component is a four-story, 41,000-square-meter terminal addition that will increase the number of check-in counters from 120 to 206. The new building will feature expanded passenger waiting areas, additional retail and duty-free space, restaurants, offices, training facilities, and protected areas. It will also connect to the airport’s existing multi-level bridge through two new bridges spanning the railway line.

The second phase includes a 22,000-square-meter baggage screening and sorting facility equipped with advanced security screening technology. The building will house the airport’s next-generation baggage handling system, along with operational offices, storage areas, staff facilities, and technical infrastructure.

Transportation Minister Miri Regev said the expansion reflects Israel’s continued investment in aviation infrastructure as international travel demand increases. Israel Airports Authority Chairman Yiftah Ron-Tal said the project is intended to prepare Ben Gurion Airport for decades of future growth while maintaining high standards of safety, security, and passenger service.

Airport officials added that the expansion is part of a broader long-term development strategy that also includes construction of a fifth terminal concourse, expanded aircraft parking aprons, upgraded baggage systems, and a new central air traffic control facility to support increasing passenger volumes.