Lebanon Launches First Executive Steps to Rehabilitate Qleiaat Airport Infrastructure
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport has taken the first concrete executive steps to rehabilitate the infrastructure and supporting facilities at Qleiaat Airport, officially known as René Mouawad Airport, in northern Lebanon. The move marks a clear shift from planning and preparation to on-the-ground implementation aimed at eventually restoring civilian operations.
Tender Announced for Road, Entrance and Esplanade Works
Through the Public Procurement Authority platform, the ministry has launched a public tender for the rehabilitation and maintenance of the airport’s road, main entrance, and surrounding esplanades. Bids are scheduled to be opened on 27 August 2026.
These works are described as an essential component of preparing the supporting infrastructure needed for safe and efficient airport operations. They form part of a broader, phased plan to bring the facility back onto Lebanon’s civil aviation map.
Phased Approach to Full Rehabilitation
The ministry emphasized that the project will advance in successive stages. Work on basic infrastructure, access points, and esplanades will proceed in parallel with the completion of technical, operational, security, and administrative requirements in line with civil aviation standards and regulations.
This gradual method prioritizes operational needs, starting with foundational elements before expanding to additional equipment, facilities, and services required for safe, organized, and sustainable airport functioning.
Strategic National Importance Beyond Technical Upgrades
Reactivating Qleiaat Airport is presented as a national and strategic project that goes beyond technical and operational improvements. Officials highlight its potential to strengthen Lebanon’s overall air transport system, expand civil aviation capacity, and provide additional infrastructure that supports Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport while increasing the sector’s flexibility.
The project is also expected to stimulate economic and developmental activity in Akkar governorate and the wider northern region. Potential benefits include new investment and employment opportunities, as well as revitalization of related sectors such as transport, tourism, services, and trade, helping better integrate these areas with the country’s main economic hubs.
Commitment to Gradual Field Implementation
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport stressed its focus on moving from studies and plans to progressive field execution. Each component of the project will be completed according to priority and operational requirements. The newly announced tender represents one of the initial executive actions in this process.
Work will continue in coordination with relevant official, security, and technical bodies, with the goal of fully reactivating the airport and utilizing its potential within a comprehensive national vision for developing Lebanon’s air transport sector.
This latest step builds on earlier progress, including the awarding of the rehabilitation and operations contract and ongoing technical assessments at the site.