The presence of the American tanker aircraft had occupied valuable parking positions, prompting concerns about the airport’s ability to handle the anticipated surge in passenger traffic during the peak summer travel season.
By United with Israel Staff
The U.S. Air Force has begun relocating some of its aerial refueling aircraft that had been stationed at Ben Gurion Airport in recent weeks, according to a report Thursday by Israel’s N12.
The move comes against the backdrop of continued regional security tensions and follows pressure from Israeli Transportation Minister Miri Regev, who urged defense officials to free up space at Israel’s main international airport during one of its busiest travel periods of the year.
According to the report, the presence of the American tanker aircraft had occupied valuable parking positions at Ben Gurion, prompting concerns about the airport’s ability to handle the anticipated surge in passenger traffic during the peak summer travel season.
The decision to relocate some of the aircraft is intended to help ensure normal airport operations as international travel continues to rebound despite ongoing security challenges.
More than 2.6 million passengers are expected to pass through Ben Gurion Airport during August, making it one of the busiest months since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7, 2023.
Airport officials expect an average of 100,000 travelers per day, with Thursdays projected to be the busiest travel days. August 17 is currently forecast to be the single busiest day of the month.
The U.S. Air Force deployed the refueling aircraft to Israel during recent regional military operations to support American air assets and provide strategic flexibility amid heightened tensions involving Iran and its regional proxies.
While some of the aircraft are now being relocated, the report did not indicate that the move reflects any change in the U.S. military’s commitment to Israel or its operational posture in the region.
Rather, it appears aimed at balancing ongoing military requirements with the need to maintain efficient civilian operations at Israel’s primary international gateway.
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