
Ben Gurion Airport Prepared To Stay Open Even During Missile Attacks, Officials Say
As many Israelis debate whether to cancel their summer travel plans amid fears of escalating tensions involving Israel, Iran, and the United States, Israeli security officials say Ben Gurion Airport is prepared to continue operating even during missile and drone attacks.
According to the report, the Transportation Ministry, Israel Airports Authority, and the IDF have completed the implementation of coordinated procedures and an advanced command-and-control system designed to allow takeoffs and landings to continue under threat from long-range missile and drone attacks.
Security officials say the system provides precise operational “windows” for departures and arrivals by synchronizing real-time threat monitoring, air traffic management, and Israel’s air defense systems. Pilots can be instructed to remain on the ground or hold in the air depending on the evolving security assessment.
Officials described the capability as unique, saying it enables the airport to continue functioning while minimizing risk during periods of active threats.
The plan also relies heavily on the experience of Israeli commercial airline pilots, many of whom serve or have served as reserve pilots in the Israeli Air Force, allowing for close coordination between civilian aviation and military authorities.
While officials are confident Israeli airlines can continue operating under these conditions, they acknowledge that the greater challenge will be convincing foreign carriers to maintain service to and from Israel during periods of heightened security concerns.
The strategy is intended to prevent the shutdown of Israel’s primary international gateway while preserving vital air links, subject to ongoing security assessments.
(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)