Ben Gurion Int. Braces for Record Rush as Breslov Hassidim Head to Ukraine
Ben Gurion Airport anticipates a record rush as tens of thousands of Breslov Hassidim travel to Uman, Ukraine, for Rosh Hashanah.
Jerusalem, 10 September, 2026 (TPS-IL) — Ben Gurion Airport is enduring one of its busiest days of the year as tens of thousands of Breslov Hasidim travel to Uman, Ukraine, and other Israelis are departing for their high holidays vacation.
Aviation officials have warned of staffing shortages among baggage-handling crews. The Israel Airports Authority is urging passengers to arrive early, check flight schedules in advance, and ensure all required documents are ready.
The Breslov pilgrims flock to the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, the movement’s 18th-century founder. Despite the war in Ukraine, organizers expect Rosh Hashanah attendance to approach pre-war levels, with charter flights and buses transporting pilgrims through neighboring countries.
The airport has also seen unusual incidents involving Haredi draft dodgers. Dozens have been arrested in recent days, including two detained Wednesday just before takeoff after already boarding a Wizz Air flight to Poland.