Israeli airport security officials were not available for comment. I'm taking care of my own people. We waited a long time to realize our dream'' Taking a major step toward statehood, the Palestinians on Tuesday inaugurated Gaza International Airport, their first gateway to the world, with cheers, tears and an outpouring of patriotism. An Egypt Air plane was the first to land on the desert tarmac in the southern Gaza Strip at 8:30 a.m..