The Israel Air Force's large Base 27 at Ben Gurion Airport will be shut down and transferred to the Negev next week, in a move that will feature a massive air salute to the Negev. The airport area has been home to the IAF's cargo and transportation aircraft for 49 years. Its new home will be at the Nevatim base, located between Be'er Sheva and Arad.

One of the reasons for the move is to improve the environment in the Gush Dan area that surrounds the airport. The move is expected to give an economic boost to the Negev, providing nearby Arad, Dimona and Be'er Sheva with a larger market.

The Israel Air Force's new infrastructure in the base will advance and improve its heavy cargo and transportation capabilities. During the aerial transfer next week IAF Commander Major-General Ido Nechushtan will lead a salute flight in which cargo planes will fly over Negev and Gaza Belt communities.

The base is to be inaugurated next Wednesday in the presence of President Shimon Peres, Defense Minister Ehud Barak and IDF Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi.