American refueling tankers have significantly limited civilian airport operations in Israel.
By World Israel News Staff
The U.S. Air Force is planning to reduce its presence at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport by roughly 20%, nearly five months after footage circulated on social media showing the airport’s tarmac crowded with American military aircraft.
Hebrew-language media reported that 74 U.S. aerial refueling tankers are currently stationed at the airport, significantly limiting space available for civilian air traffic.
According to a report by Arutz Sheva, the United States will redeploy some of the aircraft in the near future, reducing its footprint at Ben Gurion while leaving most of the fleet in place.
Later this week, about 20 aircraft are expected to be relocated to Israeli Air Force bases, while others will be transferred to U.S. military facilities elsewhere in the region.
Israel Airports Authority Director General Sharon Kedmi expressed cautious optimism about the move during an interview with Radio 103FM on Tuesday morning, but stressed that its impact should not be overstated.
The “refuelers are supposed to be cleared [out] by the end of the week,” Kedmi confirmed, but added that none “have moved yet.”
Kedmi described the logistical challenges created by the large number of American military aircraft at the airport, which has sharply reduced the number of parking positions available for civilian planes.
He also noted that the Israel Airports Authority does not have the authority to direct U.S. military operations.
When and how many aircraft are moved is “their decision,” Kedmi said, referring to Washington.
Even a substantial reduction in the number of American military aircraft at Ben Gurion would not necessarily lead to a significant increase in commercial flights.
In the aftermath of the Iran war, numerous foreign airlines suspended service to Israel, citing ongoing regional instability and security concerns.
At present, most flights to and from Israel are operated by domestic carriers El Al and Arkia, along with a limited number of international airlines.
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