Lois Larson
Tel Aviv Yafo Airport, also known as Ben Gurion International Airport, is the main airport in Israel, serving as a hub for several airlines. It is located on Highway 1, the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway, and offers convenient access to the city of Tel Aviv and other destinations in the country. The airport provides modern facilities and a range of services for travellers, including separate terminals for domestic and international flights, duty-free shopping, dining options, and business lounges. With its history dating back to 1936, the airport has undergone various name changes and expansions over the years, playing a significant role in the country's aviation industry.
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What You'll Learn
Ben Gurion Airport's history
Ben Gurion International Airport (IATA: TLV), often referred to by the Hebrew acronym Natbag, is the main international airport of Israel. It is situated on the outskirts of Lod, around 20 kilometres southeast of Tel Aviv. The airport is named after David Ben-Gurion, Israel's first prime minister, who died in 1973, the same year the airport was renamed.
The airport was built in 1936 in Palestine and was initially known as Wilhelma Airport. In 1948, the official name was changed from "Lod International Airport" to "Tel Aviv-Lod International Airport". Flights resumed that year, and by 1952, passenger numbers had risen to 100,000 per month. By the mid-1960s, 14 international airlines were landing at the airport, and local flights had to be redirected to Tel Aviv's other airport, Sde Dov airfield.
Ben Gurion Airport has been a target of Palestinian attacks, but strict security measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of passengers and staff. In 1972, the airport was the site of two major incidents involving hijackers. In both cases, Israeli commandos stormed the plane, but one passenger was killed in the first incident, and 24 people were killed and 80 injured in the second.
The airport has four terminals and three runways, with the main runway being the oldest surviving runway in the airport. The airport offers various facilities to maximise passenger comfort and convenience, including modern terminals, duty-free shopping, dining options, and business services. In 2006, Ben Gurion International Airport ranked first among 40 European airports and 8th out of 77 airports worldwide in a survey conducted by Airports Council International. The airport is easily accessible by car, public bus, and train, with a journey time of approximately 18 minutes from Tel Aviv Savidor Central railway station.
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Transport to and from the airport
Tel Aviv Yafo is served by just one major airport: Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), located around 7 miles from the city centre. The airport is easily accessible by car, train, bus, or taxi.
By Car
Ben Gurion Airport is located on Highway 1, the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway, and has approximately 20,000 parking spaces for short and long-term parking. Long-term parking spaces are situated several kilometres from the terminal and can be reached by a free shuttle bus.
By Train
Israel Railways operates the Ben Gurion Airport Railway Station, located in the lower level of Terminal 3. The train journey to Tel Aviv Savidor Central railway station takes about 18 minutes. The train is also accessible to passengers with wheelchairs, although it is recommended to notify the station 24 hours in advance if personal assistance is required.
By Bus
The airport is served by public buses.
By Taxi
Taxi stands are located outside the arrivals building. A popular transportation option is a shared taxi van, known in Hebrew as a monit sherut (service cab), which travels to Jerusalem, Haifa, and Beersheba.
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Facilities and services
Tel Aviv Yafo Airport, also known as Ben Gurion International Airport, is the main international airport of Israel. It is located 20 kilometres southeast of Tel Aviv and is the busiest airport in the country. The airport offers a range of facilities and services to ensure a smooth and memorable travel experience for its passengers.
Transport
The airport is conveniently located near Highway 1, the main Jerusalem-Tel Aviv Highway, and Highway 40. It is accessible by car, public bus, train, taxi, or share taxi van. Israel Railways operates train services from the airport to several parts of the country, and a public transport information office is located in the arrivals hall of Terminal 3.
Dining and Shopping
The airport offers a variety of dining options, including fast-food outlets, bakeries, cafes, and full-service restaurants serving international and local cuisine. Duty-free shops are located in the departures areas of Terminals 1 and 3, along with fashion boutiques, sports shops, electronics stores, and souvenir outlets.
Lounges and Comfort
The airport has premium lounges, such as the King David Lounge, to enhance passenger comfort, especially during layovers. First- and business-class passengers have access to dedicated lounges, while other passengers may use these services for a fee.
Information and Communication
The airport provides information counters and a 24-hour tourist information desk operated by the Israeli Government Tourist Office. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and public telephones accepting cards and coins are located throughout the premises.
Luggage and Lost and Found
A luggage storage facility is available in the Main Terminal for both short-term and long-term storage, with a fee. The airport also has a dedicated lost and found service to assist passengers in recovering misplaced items.
Additional Services
Tel Aviv Yafo Airport offers a range of additional services, including aircraft maintenance and repair, rental car services, ATMs, and facilities for disabled passengers, such as accessible telephones and toilets, raised pedestrian crossings, ramps, and lifts.
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Airlines and destinations
Tel Aviv Yafo's Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) is the biggest and busiest international airport in Israel. It serves as a hub for several airlines, including El Al, Israir Airlines, Arkia Israel Airlines, and Sun d'Or International Airlines. The airport is managed by the Israel Airports Authority and has three runways and four terminals catering to both domestic and international flights.
Ben Gurion Airport offers modern facilities and services for a smooth and memorable travel experience. The airport provides separate terminals for domestic and international flights, ensuring efficient navigation for travellers. It also features duty-free shopping with a range of international and local brands, as well as dining options ranging from quick snacks to restaurants serving international cuisine. Business lounges and meeting spaces are available for those seeking a comfortable work environment or a place to relax.
The airport is conveniently located on Highway 1, the main Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway, making it easily accessible by car or public bus. Israel Railways operates a train service from the airport, located in the lower level of Terminal 3, with connections to Tel Aviv, Haifa, Modi'in, Jerusalem, and other destinations. The journey to Tel Aviv Savidor Central railway station takes approximately 18 minutes, while the trip to Jerusalem's Yitzhak Navon station takes about 25 minutes.
Ben Gurion Airport also offers car rental services from various companies, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, and more. With approximately 20,000 parking spaces available for short and long-term parking, travellers can choose the most convenient option for their needs. Long-term parking is situated several kilometres from the terminal and is easily accessible via a free shuttle bus service.
The airport has a rich history, initially known as Lod International Airport and later as Tel Aviv-Lod International Airport until it was renamed in 1973 to honour Israel's first Prime Minister, David Ben-Gurion. Today, Ben Gurion Airport continues to be a significant aviation hub, providing efficient connectivity to domestic and international destinations.
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Airport security
Tel Aviv Yafo's airport is Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), the biggest and busiest international airport in Israel. It is located on Highway 1, the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway, and serves as a hub for several airlines, including El Al, Israir Airlines, and Arkia Israel Airlines. The airport features modern terminals, duty-free shopping, dining options, and business services.
Ben Gurion International Airport has implemented strict security precautions to ensure the safety of its passengers and staff. These measures are essential to prevent potential threats and maintain a secure environment. Here are some critical aspects of airport security at Ben Gurion:
- Passenger Screening: All passengers and their belongings are thoroughly screened before entering the airport terminal. This includes metal detectors, X-ray machines, and sometimes, physical searches. Passengers may be asked to remove shoes, jackets, and belts for a more comprehensive inspection.
- Document Check: Passengers must present valid identification documents, such as passports, and any required visas. Security personnel carefully examine these documents to verify the passenger's identity and ensure they have the necessary travel authorisation.
- Baggage Screening: All checked and carry-on baggage undergoes rigorous screening. X-ray machines and advanced imaging technology are utilised to detect any prohibited items or potential security threats within the luggage. Passengers are advised to familiarise themselves with the baggage policies of their respective airlines to avoid delays.
- Security Personnel: The airport is patrolled by highly trained security officers who maintain a visible presence throughout the premises. These officers are skilled in identifying suspicious behaviour, conducting searches, and responding to security incidents promptly and effectively.
- Perimeter Security: The airport's perimeter is carefully monitored and secured to prevent unauthorised access. This includes fencing, lighting, and regular patrols by security personnel. Additionally, access points, such as entrances and exits, are closely monitored to ensure only authorised individuals enter restricted areas.
- Technological Advancements: Ben Gurion Airport employs state-of-the-art technology to enhance security measures. This includes biometric identification systems, advanced surveillance cameras, and explosive detection systems. These technologies provide an additional layer of security and assist in identifying potential threats.
- Security Awareness: The airport authorities conduct comprehensive security awareness programmes to educate passengers and staff about security protocols. This includes providing information on prohibited items, suspicious behaviour indicators, and how to report security concerns. Passengers are encouraged to stay vigilant and play an active role in maintaining security.
The security measures at Ben Gurion International Airport are comprehensive and constantly evolving to address emerging challenges. By implementing stringent protocols and utilising advanced technology, the airport strives to ensure the safety of travellers and staff, making it a secure gateway to the city of Tel Aviv Yafo.
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Frequently asked questions
The airport that serves Tel Aviv-Yafo is Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV).
Ben Gurion International Airport is located on Highway 1, the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway.
The airport offers various facilities to maximise passenger comfort and convenience. There are separate modern terminals for domestic and international flights, duty-free shopping, a variety of dining options, and business lounges and meeting spaces.
The airport is accessible by car or public bus. Israel Railways operates a train service from the airport to several parts of the country, and there is a late-night/early-morning train service to and from the airport terminating at Beersheba Centre. A popular transportation option is a shared taxi van, known as a monit sherut in Hebrew.
The airport serves as a hub for several airlines, including El Al, Israir Airlines, Arkia Israel Airlines, Sun d'Or International Airlines, and Challenge Airlines IL.
