Lebanon Reverses Course: Airspace to Remain Open Amid Iran-Israel Tensions, Says Transport Minister
Lebanon reverses earlier decision to close airspace amid regional tensions. Minister Fayez Rasamny confirms Beirut airport will remain operational unless conditions worsen.
Enet
BEIRUT, Lebanon — Lebanon has announced that it will keep its airspace open, reversing an earlier decision to close it due to rising regional tensions triggered by the Iran-Israel conflict.
Speaking from Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport on Saturday, Minister of Public Works and Transport Fayez Rasamny said the airport would remain operational “unless something outside our control happens.” His remarks were reported by Reuters.
Middle East Airlines Increases Flights to Address Delays
In response to recent flight disruptions, Middle East Airlines (MEA), the country’s national carrier, will increase its flight frequency to accommodate passengers affected by earlier delays.
Rasamny emphasized that operations will continue as normal for now, with airport staff on alert in case the regional security situation deteriorates.
Civil Aviation Authority Earlier Announced Temporary Closures
Earlier in the day, Lebanon’s Civil Aviation Authority informed the National News Agency (NNA) that airspace would be open temporarily from:
-
10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. local time on Saturday
(7 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. GMT / 8 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. BST) -
6 a.m. local time Sunday
(3 a.m. GMT / 4 a.m. BST)
However, Rasamny’s latest announcement supersedes those timeframes, confirming that no full closure is planned at this point.
Ongoing Monitoring of Iran-Israel Conflict
The revised decision comes as Lebanon continues to monitor escalating hostilities between Iran and Israel. While no direct attacks have been reported in Lebanese territory, authorities are closely tracking the situation to ensure civilian safety and air traffic control.
Aviation authorities say contingency measures remain in place should the security environment worsen rapidly.
Bottom Line: Lebanon's skies remain open—for now—as authorities balance aviation operations with regional risks. Travelers are advised to check with airlines for updates and stay informed through official government channels.
