The first passengers have left Israel after Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion Airport partially reopened for departing flights, Times of Israel reports.

Flights are currently being operated by Israeli carriers El Al, Israir and Arkia, subject to certain restrictions. Earlier this morning, Israeli aviation authorities approved increasing the permitted passenger quota on departing flights from 70 to 100 passengers per flight, depending on the airline and aircraft size. Passengers will also be permitted to check luggage.

Israeli citizens departing on these flights must sign a declaration stating they will not return to the country for at least 30 days from the date of departure.

Ben Gurion Airport gradually reopened Wednesday evening for arriving flights to help repatriate tens of thousands of Israelis stranded abroad after the country's airspace was closed on February 28. Departing passengers are required to use an early online check-in program and arrive at the airport approximately two hours before departure.

The guidelines are aimed at avoiding overcrowding and limiting passengers' time at the airport, as missile attacks from Iran and Lebanon continue.