Passengers begin to fly out of Israel for first time since start of conflict with Iran

The first passengers are leaving the country after Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport was partially reopened for outbound flights amid the conflict with Iran.

Flights are currently operated by Israeli airlines El Al, Israir, and Arkia, alongside a series of restrictions.

Earlier this morning, Israeli aviation authorities approved an increase in the permitted passenger quota on outbound flights from 70 to 100 passengers per flight, depending on the airline and size of aircraft. Passengers will also permitted to check in luggage.

Israeli citizens departing on the flights need to sign a form stating that they will not return to the country for at least 30 days from the date of departure.

Ben Gurion Airport was gradually reopened Wednesday night for inbound flights, to help repatriate some tens of thousands of Israelis stranded abroad since the country’s airspace was shut on February 28.

Passengers leaving on these flights need to use the early check-in program from home and arrive at the airport about two hours before departure. The guidelines aim to avoid overcrowding and limit the time passengers stay on the ground at the airport, as missile and rocket attacks from Iran and Lebanon continue.