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Qlaiaat Airport First Flight to Saudi Arabia Set for Early October, Minister Reveals
Lebanon’s Minister of Public Works and Transport, Fayez Rassamni, has confirmed that the first commercial flight from Qlaiaat Airport (also known as René Mouawad Airport) will depart in early October 2026, heading to Saudi Arabia. The announcement comes as the ministry addresses declining passenger numbers, severe staff shortages, and plans to involve private operators in airport management.
First Flight from Qlaiaat Airport Confirmed
In a recent radio interview, Minister Rassamni stated that the inaugural flight from Qlaiaat Airport will take off at the beginning of October, fulfilling a previously announced timeline. The destination is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This marks a significant step in efforts to reactivate the northern Lebanese airport, which has seen limited activity in recent years.
Qlaiaat Airport, located in the Akkar region, holds strategic importance for northern Lebanon. Its potential reactivation aims to ease pressure on Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport and improve regional connectivity.
Passenger Traffic Declines Amid Ongoing Conflict
Rassamni reported an 11.5% drop in passenger numbers compared to August of the previous year. He described the decrease as relatively mild and directly linked to the continued state of war affecting the country. Despite the reduction, the figure suggests that air travel demand remains resilient under challenging security conditions.
Severe Staff Shortages at the Ministry
The minister highlighted critical human resource challenges within the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. Vacancy rates exceed 86%, and the ministry currently needs around 50 engineers to fill essential roles. However, new hiring is not feasible at present due to insufficient salaries. As a result, the ministry is seeking support from international donor agencies to address the staffing gap and maintain operations.
Plans to Privatize Airport Operations
Rassamni also announced that the ministry is preparing tender documents to assign the operation of Lebanese airports to private companies. Under the proposed model, private operators would commit to investing in the maintenance, upgrading, and development of airport infrastructure in exchange for the operating rights. This approach aims to improve efficiency, attract investment, and modernize facilities without placing additional strain on public finances.
Looking Ahead for Lebanon’s Aviation Sector
The reactivation of Qlaiaat Airport, combined with potential private-sector involvement, could help diversify Lebanon’s air transport options and support economic recovery in the north. However, success will depend on improved security conditions, adequate funding, and the ability to attract qualified personnel and investors.
As Lebanon navigates ongoing challenges, developments at Qlaiaat Airport and broader aviation reforms remain closely watched by travelers, businesses, and regional partners.
