Oron Infrastructure and Construction has secured one of Israel's most significant airport infrastructure contracts, winning a tender to expand Ben Gurion Airport's Terminal 3 in a project valued at approximately NIS 310 million ($83 million).

The expansion will add 7,000 square meters across four floors to Israel's busiest terminal, addressing growing concerns that the country's main international gateway will reach capacity by 2030. The project includes significant upgrades to border control facilities, security screening areas, and the establishment of a new entry gate for arriving passengers, according to the Israel Airports Authority.

A key component of the project is the construction of a new 2,000-square-meter structure dubbed the "Tel Aviv Gate," which will serve as a dedicated entrance for passengers arriving via bus rather than through jet bridges. The new facility is designed to streamline the border control process and enable faster, more efficient passage to the baggage claim area.

The expansion also includes a substantial upgrade to the duty-free food court, which will be enlarged by 5,500 square meters. The enhanced dining area will feature an increased variety of restaurants and cafes, along with redesigned seating areas and contemporary design elements aimed at improving the passenger experience.

"The expansion of Terminal 3 is part of a multi-year plan to upgrade Ben Gurion Airport's infrastructure, improve passenger services, and support the continued growth of international passenger traffic to and from Israel," the Israel Airports Authority stated.

Passengers at the Ben Gurion International airport near Tel Aviv, June 25, 2025.
Passengers at the Ben Gurion International airport near Tel Aviv, June 25, 2025. (credit: AVSHALOM SASSONI/FLASH90)

Ben Gurion to be pushed to its limits 

The project represents a critical investment in Israel's aviation infrastructure at a time when passenger numbers are expected to double in the coming years. In August 2025 alone, more than 2.26 million passengers passed through Ben Gurion Airport on incoming and outgoing flights. Industry estimates suggest that by 2030, approximately 40 million passengers will transit through the airport annually, pushing Israel's main aviation hub to its operational limits.

The expansion will be carried out while Terminal 3 remains fully operational, presenting significant logistical challenges. Oron Infrastructure has committed to working in close coordination with the Israel Airports Authority and airport stakeholders to maintain uninterrupted service throughout the construction period, which is expected to last approximately 30 months.

The hand luggage screening area will also be expanded with additional stations. At the same time, approximately 2,100 square meters will be added to border control zones, allowing for more passport control stations and upgraded technological systems.

Gili Azaria, co-owner of Oron Holdings, expressed pride in the company's role in the project. "We are approaching this project with great commitment and pride, as part of our ongoing work to strengthen Israel's core infrastructure nationwide," Azaria said.

Oron Infrastructure and Construction is a subsidiary of the publicly traded Oron Holdings and Investments Group, which specializes in civil engineering, infrastructure, and construction projects. The company has previously completed major infrastructure projects, including work on Route 6, the Jerusalem Light Rail, and various Israel Railways facilities.

The Terminal 3 expansion is currently considered the Israel Airports Authority's largest active project. It comes as officials continue to evaluate long-term solutions for Israel's aviation capacity, including the potential development of a second major international airport.