Originally Posted by
Casablancadave
I am planning to travel through Tel Aviv Ben Gurion (TLV) in the coming weeks and I was wondering whether anyone knows if there are any particular benefits for GS members flying out of Tel Aviv? In specific, is there a VIP or expedited check-in and/or security procedure available for GS? Were there any shortcuts through security or check-in processes? If yes, were these processes clearly marked or did you have to ask for them? Any information on this will be greatly appreciated!
You may want to ask your question in a TLV thread for more detailed information; I don't want to derail this into a TLV thread, so I will reply all at once just to be helpful with links and then stop. In answer to your question, expect your boarding pass issued at TLV to say GS. Beyond that, . . . answers below.
Originally Posted by
telemark27
At least pre-COVID, flying monthly there are no benefits to speak of and good luck throwing around GS status, no one cares. I recommend paying for the VIP service you'll see on various websites, that is your surest bet to get through security in a reasonable time. You can sometimes try security on second floor with VIP service before you move down to main security hall. If you arrive with a lot of international planes, time through security w/o VIP service could be 10 mins to 3+ hours with little clarity on lines or process. Good luck.
I wouldn't recommend "various websites". They will all just book the same service with a markup. I would recommend booking directly through the TLV airport handling agent. That would be the Laufer Group. Their website is here:
https://www.laufer.group/service-page-vip/. Costs about $200.
Originally Posted by
zambonisk
100% agree with this post. GS means nothing at TLV and paying for the expedited VIP service is some of the best $$ I've ever spent. Every time I"ve used the VIP service it has made navigating the nightmare of TLV a breeze.
If you (1) aren't checking bags; (2) check in online; and (3) are traveling in business class, there is really no need for VIP service. You can just use the carry-on only, online check-in 'security interview' line (usually almost empty) and then the business class security line (usually almost empty) to the metal detectors. Doesn't have to be a nightmare for those in the know.
(OP, if you are carry-on only, feel free to PM for more info on how to navigate TLV like a pro-- if you don't want to book VIP service and want to give this a shot).
Originally Posted by
ctownflyer
Nothing. Pay for the Fattal Terminal if you want real VIP services.
That is this:
https://www.fattal-terminal.com/terminal-services. It is a separate terminal from the airport, different from the VIP services offered by Laufer (although Laufer offers a similarly-priced option and similar service). At about $500, it is much cheaper than the similar service in offered at LAX (for over $1k) or at LHR (for over $3k). Obviously, it is a pretty good deal.