As your plane descends, the first sights greeting you are the azure waters of the Red Sea and the captivating cityscape of Eilat — this is the lasting impression created by Eilat Airport. Serving as the aerial bridge connecting southern Israel to the world, Eilat Airport (IATA: ETH, ICAO: LLET) may soon complete its mission, but its legacy in Israel's aviation history remains indelible. This article explores the airport's past, present, and future.
Airport Profile: Small but Fully Equipped
Located within Israel's southern port city of Eilat and operated by the Israel Airports Authority, Eilat Airport has been a vital transportation hub since its inauguration in 1949. Local carriers like Arkia Israel Airlines and Israir have long considered it a key destination. With an elevation of just 13 meters, the airport features a 1,900-meter runway (27 meters wide) capable of handling mid-sized aircraft including Boeing 767s. Though its passenger terminal spans only 2,800 square meters, the facility offers complete services for travelers.
Flight Network: Linking Israel to the World
Eilat Airport primarily serves domestic routes, with Tel Aviv and Haifa being the busiest connections. A limited number of international flights also operate, providing access for global visitors. While the route network appears modest, the airport's strategic importance cannot be overstated — it has been instrumental in transforming Eilat into a premier Middle Eastern vacation destination.
The Future: The Rise of Ramon Airport
With Eilat's tourism industry booming, the airport's capacity has reached its limits. To accommodate growing aviation demands, the Israeli government is constructing a new international facility — Ramon Airport. Scheduled for completion in 2017, this replacement will feature extended runways capable of servicing larger aircraft and hosting expanded international routes, further enhancing Eilat's global appeal.
Technical Specifications:
- IATA code: ETH
- ICAO code: LLET
- Elevation: 13 meters (42 feet)
- Runway length: 1,900 meters (6,234 feet)
- Runway width: 27 meters (89 feet)
While Eilat Airport's impending closure marks the end of an era, its contributions to regional development remain invaluable. The transition to Ramon Airport promises new opportunities for Eilat, poised to welcome more visitors and sustain economic growth under the guidance of this modern aviation gateway.