The Israel Airports Authority (IAA) has completed a comprehensive renovation of Haifa Airport's runways, paving the way for flights to Eilat and international destinations by adhering to international aviation safety standards. Following several weeks of closure for upgrades, the airport has resumed full operations.
The renovation work at Haifa Airport included resurfacing the runway, reinforcing the runway strip, updating lighting fixtures, and re-marking the runway. After a re-licensing process, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has approved the runway for operation.
Israeli airline AirHaifa is nearing completion of its operational license process with the CAA, anticipated by September 2024. The airline plans to launch flights from Haifa Airport to Eilat and various Mediterranean destinations.
In a milestone event last week, AirHaifa's first aircraft, an ATR 72-600 with Israeli registration 4X-IHA, landed at Haifa Airport and was greeted with a traditional water salute. The aircraft has a seating capacity of approximately 72.
"We're pleased to announce the reopening of Haifa Airport, which will allow residents of Haifa and the north to fly to various destinations without needing to travel to Ben Gurion Airport," said Transportation Minister Miri Regev. "I welcome the new airline's start of operations, which will strengthen competition, improve service, and help reduce the cost of living."
Transport and Road Safety Ministry Director-General Moshe Ben Zaken added, "The growth in Israel's aviation activity justifies the operation of an international airport to serve the residents of the north and allow them to fly to nearby destinations both domestically and internationally without the need for a long trip to Ben Gurion Airport. We welcome the addition of a new airline into the industry, which will encourage healthy competition, both in service quality and ticket prices."