Israel Airports Authority Warns Against Unauthorized Parking Services

The Israel Airports Authority has issued a strict warning urging travelers to avoid using unauthorized private parking and vehicle pickup services operating around Ben Gurion Airport. The advisory follows numerous complaints from passengers regarding vehicle misuse while they were abroad.

Risks of Unauthorized Parking

According to the IAA, several passengers recently reported serious issues after handing their cars over to third-party companies. Complaints included vehicle damage, unauthorized usage during the owners' absence abroad, and traffic fines issued in the owners' names.

We are taking all available measures against unauthorized operations at Ben Gurion Airport, including legal action and the expulsion of unlicenced operators from airport premises, the authority stated.

The IAA emphasized that there is no official valet or pickup parking service operated by the authority itself. Passengers are strongly advised to rely exclusively on official airport parking lots or utilize public transportation, such as Israel Railways.

Passenger Testimony and Dashcam Evidence

The warning comes in the wake of a reported incident involving a traveler named Avi, who used a private service during a holiday trip to Cyprus. Upon checking his vehicle's dashcam footage after returning, Avi discovered multiple driving videos recorded while he was still abroad.

• The footage showed the car being driven for personal or work errands.

• A strange driver was recorded utilizing the vehicle to transport other cars.

• The owner noted wasted fuel and potential security risks despite no major physical damage.

Authorities continue to investigate such cases and reiterate that using uncertified vendors poses significant legal and financial risks for travelers.