travel surge

Ben Gurion parking lots full, closed

Israel Airports Authority tells travelers to avoid private cars and use public transport only; all lots at capacity through the chagim

Gila Isaacson

SEP 27, 2026 16:08

2 min read

The Israel Airports Authority issued an unusual notice Sunday announcing that all parking lots at Ben Gurion Airport have reached full capacity with no available spaces. The authority called on travelers and those accompanying them to avoid arriving by private car and to reach the airport by public transport only.

According to the notice, the situation stems from the surge in passenger volume during the Tishrei holidays. The Airports Authority said the notice will remain in effect until further announcement, and apologized for the inconvenience.

"Due to the increase in passenger volume during the Tishrei holidays, Ben Gurion parking lots are currently at full capacity with no available parking spaces until further notice," the authority's statement read. "We ask the traveling public and those accompanying them to avoid arriving at Ben Gurion by private car and to reach the airport by public transport."

The Tishrei holiday period is marked each year by a significant rise in passenger traffic at Ben Gurion, both among travelers flying abroad and among those accompanying them to the airport. The parking congestion adds to the general crowding in the terminals and airport facilities during this period.

The authority clarified that another announcement will be issued as soon as there is a change in parking lot capacity. In the meantime, travelers must plan their arrival at the airport by public transport or private shuttle service.