Comptroller: Miri Regev's Transportation Ministry fails to prepare for new emergencies post-Oct. 7

The Jerusalem Post reports on a scathing critique by State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman regarding the Transportation Ministry's inadequate response to the aviation crisis that ensued after the October 7th war outbreak. The report highlights significant failures in preparedness, particularly the absence of any procedure to prioritize the return of Israelis stranded abroad, including essential soldiers and reservists who faced difficulties securing flights and incurred high costs.

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At the start of the Israel-Hamas war, neither the Transportation Ministry, the Civil Aviation Authority, nor the National Security Council had a procedure for prioritizing the return of Israelis stranded abroad based on their importance to the economy or national needs.

Despite these criticisms, the report did commend the Civil Aviation Authority and Israel's airlines for their operational resilience during the crisis, acknowledging their efforts to maintain air services and connectivity. However, these acknowledgments do not overshadow the broader state failures identified in handling civil aviation during emergencies, even with Ben-Gurion Airport remaining operational for much of the conflict.

The comptroller's findings underscore a critical need for robust long-term planning, clear lines of authority, and a comprehensive national aviation policy that addresses both normal operations and emergency scenarios. Englman specifically directed criticism at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging prompt action on establishing a complementary airport to Ben-Gurion, a necessity made even more apparent by recent missile threats from Iran and Lebanon.

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The comptroller said these shortcomings underscored the need for long-term planning, clearer chains of authority, and a broader national aviation policy for both routine periods and wartime.

From an Israeli perspective, this report is a stark reminder of vulnerabilities exposed during wartime. The reliance on a single major airport and the lack of contingency plans for civilian air transport during prolonged conflicts are serious concerns. The report's emphasis on national interests and the need for Israeli carriers to function during crises reflects a deep-seated understanding of Israel's unique security challenges. The call for a second airport is not merely about convenience but a strategic imperative for national resilience, ensuring the country can maintain essential functions and connectivity even under severe duress.

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The prime minister must ensure a decision is made and implemented promptly.