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A chapter in Lebanon’s aviation history is set to reignite as Qlayaat Airportofficially known as René Mouawad Airport, launches its long-awaited redevelopment project after 36 years of activity. The official launch ceremony will take place on June 6, 2026. It marks a major step towards bringing Lebanon’s second civilian airport back into operation.
To read more about the company that won the bid to operate the airport, click here.
Located in Akkar, just a few kilometers from the Syrian border, the airport has a long history. Originally built by the French military in the late 1930s, it later served as both a military and civilian airport. During the Lebanese Civil War, it played an important role in connecting northern Lebanon, and between 1988 and 1990, Middle East Airlines operated domestic flights at both Qlayaat and Beirut airports.
For decades, plans to revive the airport remained on hold. Officials pushed to reduce pressure on Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport and strengthen Lebanon’s aviation infrastructure. Earlier this year, the government approved a gradual reopening plan, while recent tenders and rehabilitation efforts moved the project closer to reality.
Once operational, Qlayaat Airport will serve northern Lebanon, support tourism and economic activity, and provide an alternative gateway to the country during peak travel periods. Officials have also suggested that the airport could eventually host low-cost carriers and cargo operations.
Tomorrow’s launch marks the official return of an airport that has remained largely inactive since 1990, ending decades of uncertainty surrounding its future.
