Israel plans to reopen Ben Gurion Airport next month

Thursday, May 14, 2020

The government of Israel recently announced that it is planning to reopen Ben Gurion Airport, the country’s largest hub. The airport was closed back during March in light of the COVID-10 pandemic. According to reports, the government is looking forward to opening the airport once again on June 1. The decision comes after a Tuesday meeting between Israel airport authorities and senior health officials.

Authorities are on talks about the destinations the airport will serve right after reopening. A list is being made considering the ‘green countries’, which has a lower risk of coronavirus infections and have undertaken strict measures to handle the critical situation created by the pandemic. Ben Gurion Airport is likely to fly to destinations like Slovenia, Montenegro, Berlin, Georgia, and the Greek Islands initially.

However, the reopening will be subjected to several restrictions and safety measures. Residents will have to report to the airport in advance before departing. Passengers will undergo testing and temperature checks before boarding a flight as well as after landing back to their destination. They will also be advised to show both their tickets and passports before the temperature check. Travellers are allowed to only use the counter for sending suitcases while check-in. Baggage trays will be continuously sterilized at the security check stations to improve hygiene.

Any passenger who fails to undergo a temperature check would not be allowed to enter the airport building. No companion who is not boarding the flight alongside the passenger is allowed to arrive at the terminal with the passengers. Travelers will also have to arrive four hours before the flight departure. It would also be compulsory for every passenger to wear to face mask. In addition, passengers other than family members will have to maintain a distance of two meters from each other. The measures would be undertaken to ensure eliminating the risk of virus spread in flights.

However, irrespective of the restrictions and strict safety measures, travelers are expected to be happy about the reopening. Israel is an important country that serves as a connecting point for various nations across the globe. Besides, the reopening would also bring some relief to the Israeli carriers and aviation sector.

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