Israel May Allow Night Flights at Ben Gurion

The Israeli Government is considering lifting the restriction on night-time take-offs from Tel Aviv's Ben-Gurion International Airport.

According to local press, Ministry of Tourism Director General Shaul Tzemach says extending the operational hours of the airport will increase passenger traffic and income.

Departures from the airport are banned between 1.40am and 5.30am to reduce noise impact on nearby residents.

"Extending Ben-Gurion's working hours is likely to lead to up to a 20 percent increase in passenger traffic, and contribute millions of dollars to Israel's economy," Tzemach says.

He also said that flight prices will drop, and that "airlines that want to operate at night, will have to use quiet aircraft so that the quality of life of people residing near the airport will not be affected".

By Elizabeth Clifford-Marsh