Overview of the Current Situation 13/08/2024
In the battle against Iran and other threats, Israel’s main airport, Ben-Gurion, is likely a target of attacks. After all, it is packed to the brim with people at almost any given hour and is located so close to one of the country’s valuable facilities – the Israel Aerospace Industries.
Due to this, the topic of the Ramon Airport in Eilat becoming a temporary replacement had begun to surface. No official statements have been made, and the Ben-Gurion Airport has been working normally for the most part, but if the Airport is exposed to many attacks, this may very well become a reality.
Why Ramon Airport?
Ramon Airport, located near Eilat in the southern part of Israel, is considerably smaller than Ben-Gurion but offers a strategic advantage in terms of security. Built with the foresight to handle emergency situations, Ramon Airport is well-protected by advanced missile defense systems, including the Iron Dome and Arrow systems. Despite its size, the airport’s infrastructure has been designed to accommodate large aircraft, making it a viable alternative during prolonged conflicts.
The Eilat Contingency Plan
In the event of sustained attacks on central Israel, the “Silver Wings” plan would be activated, giving all relevant parties 12 hours to relocate operations to Ramon Airport. This plan ensures that Israel remains connected to the world, even during large-scale attacks. Although Ramon currently handles only a few daily flights, it is prepared to scale up operations as needed, with the capacity to manage transatlantic flights and accommodate urgent cargo.
Challenges of Operating from Ramon Airport
While Ramon Airport is ready to step in as Israel’s primary airport during emergencies, it does come with certain limitations. Designed to handle 1.8 million passengers annually, it lacks the capacity of Ben-Gurion, which can accommodate up to 30 million passengers per year. Additionally, the airport’s location—three hours away from central Israel—presents logistical challenges. Increased public transportation and shuttle services would be required to connect passengers to and from the airport efficiently.
Impact on Domestic Flights and Eilat Residents
A significant concern with the potential relocation of operations is the impact on domestic flights, particularly the vital route between Eilat and Ben-Gurion. This route is essential for residents of Eilat who require medical treatment or conduct business in central Israel. In the past, during Operation Protective Edge, flights were redirected to the now-closed Sde Dov Airport in Tel Aviv. With Sde Dov no longer available, Ramon Airport would need to fill this gap, albeit with reduced capacity.
Preparing for All Scenarios
As Israel navigates these uncertain times, the relocation of Ben-Gurion Airport operations to Ramon Airport remains a critical component of the country’s emergency preparedness. While the hope is that such measures will not be necessary, it is reassuring to know that plans are in place to ensure the safety and continuity of Israel’s air travel.
For travelers, our VIP service at Ben Gurion Airport, as well as efficient transfers to and from Ramon Airport in Eilat, are designed to offer a smooth and stress-free experience, no matter the circumstances. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, we’re committed to making your journey as comfortable and secure as possible.
