Free Republic

A security assessment led to the immediate shutdown of the southern airport. The IDF ordered the immediate shutdown of the airport at Eilat Thursday to all arriving and departing flights, following an unspecified security assessment. The assessment is most likely linked to terrorist activity in the Sinai desert, which borders on the southern port city. Takeoffs of flights headed north were initially allowed to take place but were also stopped later in the evening. The IDF will open the airfield at Uvda as an alternate landing spot for flights diverted from Eilat. The Egyptian military has been conducting a large...

Mar. 4, 2003 New $220m. Eilat airport approved By TAL MUSCAL The Southern District Planning Committee has approved the building of Eilat s new airport, expected to cost $220 million, the Airports Authority said on Tuesday. The airport will be constructed 19 kilometers north of the town, near Timna. Nestled in the heart of Eilat, the current airport will cease operations and be converted for commercial use, once the new facility is open. A target date for completion has yet to be given. In light of the approval, and green light given by the Eilat Municipality, Eilot Local Council, the...