US, Iran conflict could force Ben-Gurion Airport to cancel 30 flights daily through summer - report

Ben-Gurion Airport faces potential daily flight cancellations this summer due to the escalating conflict between the U.S. and Iran. A report from N12 indicates that if seven more American refueling planes are added, bringing the total to 40, the airport could be forced to cancel 30 flights daily starting August 1.

This situation could leave approximately 5,000 passengers stranded each day. An emergency meeting held at the airport on Monday, attended by Transportation Minister Miri Regev and other officials, addressed the strain on airport capacity. The number of American refueling aircraft at Israeli airports is increasing, with Ilan Ramon Airport currently hosting 28 planes and more stationed at various Air Force bases.

Initially, the Transport Ministry announced a reduction of U.S. refueling aircraft at Ben-Gurion to 20 by July 21, as agreed upon, with the remainder to be transferred to IDF bases. This move was intended to allow military operations to continue while preserving aviation continuity and minimizing disruptions during the peak summer travel season. However, recent reports suggest the U.S. may not relocate the refuelers as planned, and instead, more aircraft are expected.