The first flight as part of Operation Safe Return landed in Israel this morning (Wednesday), after taking off from Larnaca, Cyprus.
The state-led operation is intended to repatriate Israeli passengers who were forced to remain abroad due to flight cancellations.
The operation is being managed in a phased manner and in accordance with the level of risks and the assessment of the security situation, while emphasizing the safety of passengers, air crews, and aircraft.
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In accordance with the plan, the Airports Authority increased the number of employees at Ben Gurion Airport in order to evacuate passengers from the airport as quickly as possible. They underwent an expedited procedure for entering Israel and collecting their luggage.
At the end of the procedure, passengers were transported to their vehicles in Ben Gurion Airport parking lots as well as via shuttles and trains to city centers across the country.
Ahead of the landing, Transportation Minister Miri Regev spoke with the ultra-Orthodox captain Nechama Spiegel and told her: "We are waiting for you with bated breath. We are very excited to receive the first rescue flight from Larnaca as part of Operation 'Safe Return.' Land safely, God willing, and prepare for the continuation of this airlift to return all Israelis.".
Video: Ministry of Transportation
The Israel Airports Authority emphasizes that, given the security situation, it is of utmost importance to reduce the length of stay at the airport to the necessary minimum. Accordingly, the public is asked to refrain from arriving at the airport to greet passengers and not to order taxis to the airport to pick up passengers.
For the benefit of the public, the Airports Authority will increase the shuttle system from the terminal to the nearby parking lots. In addition, and in coordination with the Ministry of Transportation, bus and train traffic from the airport to city centers across the country will be strengthened.
