Tel Aviv Airport Terminals

Ben Gurion Airport’s Terminal 3 is Israel’s main international gateway, serving millions of travelers annually with modern facilities, efficient design, and a wide range of amenities. Located about 20 km southeast of Tel Aviv, the terminal is a symbol of Israel’s growth and connectivity to the world.

Historical Background and Origins

Ben Gurion Airport first opened in 1936, originally designed by the British with four intersecting runways suitable for the aircraft of the era. After Israel’s independence in 1948, the airport came under the control of the new state and began expanding to meet increasing demand.

For decades, Terminal 1 served as the main terminal. However, by the 1980s and 1990s, rapid population growth, mass immigration, and a surge in international business and tourism made the existing facilities inadequate. The government decided in January 1994 to construct a new, modern terminal-Terminal 3-intended to be ready for the millennium celebrations in 2000. Due to delays, including the bankruptcy of a major contractor and rising costs, Terminal 3 ultimately opened in November 2004, at a cost of about $1 billion.

Terminal 3 was designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), along with Israeli architects, and quickly became one of Israel’s largest public projects and a symbol of its modernization. Its layout, inspired by leading airports in Europe and North America, features multiple levels, long concourses, and modern amenities to accommodate millions of passengers annually.

Since its opening, Terminal 3 has undergone further expansions and upgrades to handle increasing passenger numbers, with new wings, additional check-in counters, and expanded duty-free and VIP areas planned or under construction to meet future demand

Terminal 3 is known for its award-winning architecture and spacious layout, making navigation easy even during busy periods.

Zones and Levels Overview

Ground Floor (Level G): Arrivals and Services

This level is dedicated to arriving passengers and those greeting them. Here you’ll find the spacious Arrivals Hall, cafes, shops, ATMs, money exchange, vending machines, and the lost and found desk.
Transportation options such as taxis and shuttles are easily accessible, with clear signs guiding you outside.
A new section opened in 2024 on the west side, adding 22 check-in counters, a security check system, and a link to the baggage screening area-streamlining arrivals and departures.

Intermediate Level: Car Rentals

Between the arrivals and departures halls, this area houses car rental counters, making it convenient for travelers to pick up or drop off vehicles without leaving the terminal.

Departures Hall (Level 3): Check-In and Security

Most check-in counters and self-check-in kiosks are located here, along with passport control and security screening.
After security, passengers enter the main departures area, which features a wide variety of duty-free shops, restaurants, and the entrance to the airside concourse.
The Buy & Bye shopping mall is also on this level, open to both travelers and the public, offering shops, restaurants, and a post office.

Airside (Rotunda and Concourses)

After clearing security, passengers enter a star-shaped rotunda filled with 24/7 dining and shopping options, banking facilities, a VAT refund desk, and a synagogue.
Four concourses (B, C, D, E) radiate from the rotunda, leading to 40 boarding gates equipped with jet bridges. Two additional bus gates serve aircraft parked remotely.
Concourses B, C, and D opened with the terminal in 2004; Concourse E was added in 2018, with space for future expansion.

Navigation Tips

Moving walkways and escalators help passengers cover the terminal’s long distances comfortably.
Allow extra time to reach distant gates, especially during peak hours.
Free shuttle buses connect Terminal 3 with Terminal 1 and the railway station every 15–30 minutes.

Design Highlights

Terminal 3 is filled with natural daylight, lush indoor gardens, and wide communal spaces, creating a welcoming and relaxing environment.
The ramped connector between landside and airside areas minimizes level changes, making movement through the terminal smooth for all passengers.

Terminal 3’s thoughtful layout, modern amenities, and clear zoning ensure a seamless experience for both departing and arriving travelers.

VIP Lounges and Refreshments

Terminal 3 features several VIP lounges such as the Dan Plus Lounge, Dan Lounges in Concourses B and C, and the King David Business Lounges in Concourse D. These lounges provide premium food and beverages, including alcoholic drinks, snacks, and kosher options, along with comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and business facilities.

Access to lounges can be gained through business or first-class tickets, frequent flyer status, or by purchasing day passes, offering a peaceful retreat before your flight.

Terminal 3’s shopping and dining options ensure travelers can enjoy a comfortable, convenient, and culturally rich experience, whether grabbing a quick snack, indulging in local specialties, or shopping for gifts and essentials.

Summary Table: Most Popular International Flights

Destination	Duration (approx.)	Airlines Operating
Athens	2h	El Al, Aegean
London	5h	El Al, British Airways, Wizz Air
Dubai	3.5h	El Al, Emirates, Flydubai
Vienna	3.5h	El Al, Austrian Airlines
Paris	5h	El Al, Air France, easyJet
Istanbul	2h	Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, El Al
New York (JFK)	11h	El Al, Delta
Larnaca	1h	El Al, Tus Airways, Arkia

For long-haul flights, consider arriving at the airport at least three hours before departure to allow time for security and check-in.

Terminal 3 at Ben Gurion Airport is designed for efficiency, comfort, and a pleasant travel experience, offering everything from world-class shopping and dining to luxurious VIP services. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, the terminal’s facilities ensure a smooth start or end to your journey.

Essential Services

Wi-Fi: Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout Terminal 3. Simply connect to the "Netvision" network for easy access.
Tip: Use the Wi-Fi to download travel apps or maps before your flight for added convenience.
Medical Care: A 24/7 medical clinic is located next to Gate 21 in the West Gallery of the Greeters Hall, with another clinic in the Departure Hall Duty Free Area near the Mother and Child Room. For assistance, call 03-975 26 25.
ATMs & Banking: Multiple ATMs are available throughout Terminal 3, and banking services are also provided for currency exchange and other needs.
Police: There is a police station in the parking lot opposite Terminal 1, handling all services except weapon deposits. For emergencies, call 03-971 54 44 or 03-975 09 98.
Synagogues: Two synagogues operate 24/7-one in the Greeters Hall (eastern gallery, 1st floor) and another in the Duty Free Hall.
Lost & Found: If you lose an item, visit the Information Counter for assistance.
Luggage Storage: Lockers are available for short-term luggage storage, ideal if you have a long layover and want to explore.
Baby Care & Children’s Facilities: Baby care rooms and children’s play areas are provided, making the terminal family-friendly.
Other Services: Public phones, calling card machines, vending machines, VAT refund desks, post office, self-check-in kiosks, and a hotel are all available within the terminal.

Smoking is not allowed anywhere inside the terminal, so plan accordingly.

Shopping

The terminal features an extensive duty-free shopping area operated primarily by James Richardson Duty Free, located in the main Duty Free Hall and at the ends of Concourses B and C. Here, travelers can purchase a wide range of products including:

Alcohol and tobacco
Perfumes and cosmetics
Confectionery and chocolates
Pharmacy and toiletries
Israeli souvenirs such as Dead Sea products, olive oil, dates, and hummus
Toys and games, with dedicated stores popular among families

Restaurants & Food

Dining at Terminal 3 is varied and caters to all tastes and dietary needs:

McDonald’s: A kosher, 24/7 branch is available in Terminal 3, offering classic fast food and special takeaway meal boxes for flights. Payment is easy with self-service kiosks accepting shekels, and soon, euros and dollars.
Moses: Soon opening in the duty-free area, this popular Israeli burger chain will offer a sit-down restaurant experience.
Cafe Cafe: A dairy, kosher café serving coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and light meals, supervised by a local rabbi.
Frame Chef & Sushi Bar: Located in the Buy & Bye mall, this spot offers fresh sushi, Asian cuisine, and vegan options. Prices are higher than in the city, but the quality and variety are praised by travelers.
Other Options: Numerous cafés, bakeries, and snack bars are spread throughout the terminal, providing both quick bites and full meals.

Many airport restaurants offer takeaway meal boxes, which are perfect for your flight-especially as some airlines now charge for inflight meals.

Lounges

Terminal 3 offers several VIP lounges for added comfort:

Dan Plus Lounge: Located airside, open from three hours before the first departure until the last. Offers premium food, snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, newspapers, and business amenities.
Dan Lounge (Concourse B & C): Concourse B lounge is open from 1:00 pm to 8:00 am; Concourse C lounge is open 24/7. Both provide snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and a quiet atmosphere.
King David Lounges (Concourse D): Business First and Business Class lounges offer snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, showers, spa services, and business facilities.

Access is available for premium passengers, certain credit card holders, or for a fee-ideal for long layovers or business travelers.

Upcoming Upgrades

Major upgrades are planned for Terminal 3, including an expanded duty-free food court and improved border control and baggage claim areas, aiming to reduce wait times and enhance the passenger experience.
Tip: Construction is set to start in mid-2025, so check for possible changes or temporary relocations of services during your trip.

With its wide variety of services, restaurants, and shops, Ben Gurion’s Terminal 3 ensures travelers have everything they need-whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a luxury shopping spree, or a quiet place to relax before your flight.

Transfer between terminals

Transferring between terminals at Ben Gurion Airport is straightforward and free, thanks to a dedicated shuttle bus service. Here’s what you need to know:

Free Shuttle Bus: Ben Gurion Airport provides a complimentary shuttle bus connecting Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. The service operates every 10 to 20 minutes, making it easy for passengers to move between terminals regardless of their airline or flight type.
Location and Stops: The shuttle stops are clearly marked outside the arrivals area of each terminal. Simply follow the signs for “Shuttle Bus” once you exit the baggage claim or arrivals hall.
Operating Hours: The shuttle runs throughout the day, but it’s always wise to allow extra time during peak hours or if you have tight connections.
Duration: The ride between terminals usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on airport traffic.
Accessibility: The buses are accessible for travelers with reduced mobility and have space for luggage.

If you’re connecting from an international flight in Terminal 3 to a domestic or low-cost flight in Terminal 1 (or vice versa), factor in at least 30 minutes for the transfer, including waiting and travel time.

Parking and Access: Short-term parking is available near both terminals, with the main lot directly in front of Terminal 3 and another lot in front of Terminal 1.

Extra Advice: During Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening), public transportation options are limited, but the airport shuttle between terminals continues to operate.

This efficient shuttle service ensures smooth connections for all passengers, whether you’re catching a domestic flight, an international connection, or simply moving between terminals for services or car rentals.