Last updated on: 31 May 2021

COVID-19 Safety Measures at Ben-Gurion International Airport

The Ben-Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, is one of the most secure airports in the world. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, many additional safety measures have been implemented at the airport, with the aim of maintaining it as a ‘coronavirus-free zone’. Those travelling to or from this location should familiarise themselves with the COVID-19 safety measures at Ben-Gurion International Airport, Tel Aviv before boarding their flight to make sure they know what to expect.

What airport measures are currently in place for travellers upon arrival?

Travellers arriving in or returning to Israel are required to fill out a health declaration and personal information form for the Ministry of Health at least 24 hours before arriving in the country. Passengers will be given a clearance number which they will need to keep with them as they travel. Passengers arriving from a Red Country will need to isolate for 14 days after arrival in Israel. Escorts are not allowed to wait in the airport building, passengers who are being picked up will need to make arrangements to meet in the car park.

What airport measures are currently in place for travellers departing?

Passengers departing from Ben-Gurion International Airport should allow additional time for the extra safety measures that are in place. Passengers now need to arrive at the airport four hours ahead of their flight, in order to pass through both the existing safety measures and the additional ones. Only passengers with booked flights are permitted into the airport, escorts will not be allowed in the terminal. Digital check-in stations are in use at the airport to reduce human contact. Travellers departing from Israel are also required to complete a health declaration for the Ministry of Health, this should be completed at least 24 hours before departing Israel. Passengers should keep a copy of the declaration and their clearance number on them as they travel.

Are there any screening or PCR testing facilities available?

Temperature screening is in place at Ben-Gurion International Airport. There are no PCR testing facilities at Ben-Gurion Airport, however passengers can pay for a test at an Israeli hospital or clinic in advance of travelling. Those travelling from Israel to certain countries will need to pay for a PCR test before they are permitted to travel. The airport has a clinic for first aid requirements only.

What about face masks and social distancing?

Passengers are required to wear a mask at all times in the airport, as well as when travelling to the airport by public transport. Social distancing protocols are also in place throughout the airport. This includes floor markings and signage designed to help passengers to keep their distance from others at all times, especially when queuing at shops, security, boarding and baggage collection.

What is the airport’s COVID-19 cleaning policy?

The airport has an enhanced cleaning policy, as a result of increased COVID-19 safety measures. This includes frequent disinfectant-level cleaning by humans of communal surface areas such as handrails and door knobs, as well as the use of robot floor cleaners, which are in constant operation. Hand sanitation stations are placed all over the airport, which passengers are encouraged to use.

Are the dining and shopping facilities open at the airport?

Most of the airport’s dining, café and other retail facilities, including the pharmacy, remain open. Only two duty free shops are currently open: the James Richardson Duty Free and the Sweets Market, both in Terminal 3. Queuing systems are in place in all shops and dining outlets.

What else do I need to know or do before arriving at Ben-Gurion International Airport?

Passengers can phone the airport customer service line on 03-975-5555 for all the latest advice and guidelines for travel. Flights are subject to change and passengers can also use this number to check the status of their flight. Passengers are also advised to check with their airline about their flight status before arriving at the airport. Those arriving or returning to Israel should familiarise themselves with the current national government guidelines that are place in relation to COVID-19. Book your flight to or from Tel Aviv with BudgetAir for the most competitively priced seats.